South Korea's chief prosecutor has resigned over a series of corruption scandals in the prosecution service.
The BBC reports Han Sang-dae made a public apology, although he has not been implicated in any of the cases.
In one case an official has been charged with receiving more than $US800,000 (£499,000) in bribes. Another prosecutor is accused of offering a suspect leniency in exchange for sex.
Mr Han's attempts at reform were reportedly opposed by his staff.
Announcing his resignation, Mr Han bowed and said:
"I sincerely apologise to the people for causing such a shock and disappointing them with such embarrassing incidents."
The BBC says he had been in office for just over a year. No replacement has yet been named.
A presidential election is due to be held in South Korea on 19 December.
