Korea Independent Commission Against Corruption

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The Korea Independent Commission Against Corruption (KICAC) is South Korea’s independent body that fights corruption and helps keep government clean. It reports to the President.

KICAC was created on January 25, 2002, under the Anti-Corruption Act passed on July 24, 2001. It works to prevent corruption by creating policies, improving institutions, and running education programs. It also investigates corruption, handles public complaints, and checks how other organizations try to fight corruption.

In February 2008, KICAC joined with other agencies to form the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission (ACRC) to provide a single, stronger anti-corruption service. The Ombudsman of Korea and the Administrative Appeals Commission also became part of the ACRC. The ACRC is based in Seodaemun, Seoul.

KICAC’s leadership consists of nine commissioners: three appointed by the National Assembly, three by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and three by the President. They serve three-year terms and act independently. By early 2007, KICAC employed about 210 public servants.

ACRC has 15 commissioners in total and four departments: Ombudsman Bureau, Anti-Corruption Bureau, Administrative Appeals Bureau, and Planning and Coordination (the secretariat). The main aim of the ACRC is to guide anti-corruption policy, handle complaints, and oversee anti-corruption work across government. The reforms followed the 1997 Asian financial crisis, which highlighted corruption and spurred stronger anti-corruption laws and actions.