Seoul:Supreme Court Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae stated on Tuesday that it is challenging to comply with the presidential office's request to recommend a new Supreme Court justice due to insufficient grounds for such a recommendation.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Cho reiterated his stance during a parliamentary audit of the Supreme Court. This follows his earlier refusal to recommend a new justice candidate as requested by Cheong Wa Dae, the executive office of South Korea.
Cho explained that the document from Cheong Wa Dae requesting the new recommendation did not specify the necessary reasons or constitutional grounds, making it difficult to proceed with the recommendation process. He expressed regret to the public for the ongoing vacancy on the Supreme Court and pledged to work towards resolving the issue.
The request from Cheong Wa Dae came in August, asking Cho to recommend a new candidate to President Lee Jae Myung. The request cited concerns over a lack of "procedural completeness" in Cho's original recommendation. However, Cho has maintained his position, seeking clarification on the specific reasons and constitutional basis required to fulfill the request.
Under the South Korean Constitution, Supreme Court justices are appointed by the president based on the recommendation of the chief justice and require the consent of the National Assembly.
During the audit session, Cho declined to take an oath as a witness, citing the principle of separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The ruling Democratic Party has insisted that Cho attend the session as a witness, although it is customary for Supreme Court chief justices to leave audit sessions after delivering opening remarks, with the consent of the head of the parliamentary judiciary committee.