S. Korea chief prosecutor resigns over scandals

SEOUL (AFP) - South Korea's chief prosecutor resigned today, apologising publicly for a series of "embarrassing" scandals that fuelled a top-level feud within the prosecution service.

Announcing his resignation to the media, Han Sang-Dae bowed deeply and voiced regret over recent cases that included one senior prosecutor taking bribes and another allegedly offering a suspect leniency in exchange for sex.

"I sincerely apologise to the people for causing such a shock and disappointing them with such embarrassing incidents," Mr Han said.

The scandals exacerbated a feud within the prosecution service, notably between Mr Han and a rival who headed a powerful department investigating corrupt officials, politicians and business leaders.