South Korean Opposition Demands Chief Justice Resign Over Nomination Controversy

South Korea's Democratic Party intensified its calls for the resignation of Supreme Court Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae on August 21, citing controversy surrounding his nomination of new justices. The party accused Cho of bypassing presidential consultation, a move they deem unprecedented and inappropriate.

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The fundamental issue is not one that should excite the National Assembly, but rather the judiciary. The judiciary is not excited right now, and that is the problem.

Kim Min-seok, the leader of the Democratic Party, asserted that the current situation is not a matter for the National Assembly to debate but rather one that requires decisive action from the judiciary itself. "The fundamental issue is not one that should excite the National Assembly, but rather the judiciary," Kim stated during a party meeting. He urged the Supreme Court and its judges to take the lead in addressing Cho's alleged misconduct and to provide a resolution that the public can accept.

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I hope the Supreme Court justices and all the honorable judges of the Supreme Court and the judiciary of the Republic of Korea will gather their collective wisdom and ensure that the public and the National Assembly and the President do not have to worry.

The controversy erupted on August 18 when Chief Justice Cho submitted a list of Supreme Court justice candidates to President Lee Jae-myung without prior consultation. This 'Blue House passing' has drawn criticism from both the presidential office and the Democratic Party, who view it as an unusual and unilateral action.

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Chief Justice Cho should step down responsibly without further damaging the authority of the judiciary.

Several party members have echoed Kim's sentiments, demanding Cho's immediate resignation. Supreme Council member Seo Mi-hwa called for Cho to step down to prevent further damage to the judiciary's authority. Lee Sung-yoon suggested that Cho's actions already constitute grounds for impeachment, while Han Min-soo warned of strong parliamentary action if Cho does not resign. The party also urged judges nationwide to convene and discuss Cho's position.

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Chief Justice Cho passed President Lee Jae-myung with a unilateral nomination of justices. He should take responsibility and resign immediately. I believe the grounds for impeachment are sufficient now.