Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae emphasizes judicial independence in his speech commemorating Court Day... Attention amid calls for re-nomination of Supreme Court Justice candidates

Chief Justice Jo Hee-de stated that rule of law can only be realized when the courts are free from undue interference by other state organs or political power.

Chief Justice Jo made the remark during a commemorative address at the 12th "Day of the Republic of Korea Courts" ceremony held in the central hall on the second floor of the Supreme Court in Seocho-gu on the 11th.

He emphasized, "When the court, an independent state organ under the Constitution, conducts trials neutrally and fairly solely in accordance with the Constitution and the law, without receiving undue interference or influence from other state organs, political power, social forces, or even litigants, it can fully guarantee the freedom and rights of the public and realize the rule of law."

He continued, "Unwaveringly fulfilling this constitutional mission under any difficulty is the steadfast responsibility given to our judiciary, the final bastion protecting the fundamental rights of the people," adding, "On Court Day, as we reflect on that precious meaning once again, the court will continue to exercise judicial power properly, strictly for the benefit of the people."

Addressing court members, Chief Justice Jo urged, "Complex and difficult cases are increasing by the day, and instances where social conflict and extreme confrontation lead to trials are also growing," adding, "As conflicts intensify in this manner, the court must fulfill its given role even more steadfastly, strictly according to the law and principles."

Chief Justice Jo's remarks that day came amidst an ongoing standoff between the Blue House and the Supreme Court over the issue of recommending Supreme Court justice candidates.

On the 18th of last month, Chief Justice Jo broke the custom of submitting recommendations after reaching an agreement with the Blue House and formally recommended in writing Chief Judge Son Bong-gi of the Daegu District Court, with whom no agreement had been reached.

Ten days later, the Blue House requested a re-recommendation, stating that it was a "recommendation lacking procedural completeness."

The Supreme Court is expected to issue a statement soon regarding the Blue House's request for re-recommendation.

Meanwhile, the court designated September 13 as "Court Day" every year starting in 2015 to commemorate September 13, 1948, when judicial power, which had been lost to the Japanese colonial rule, was finally handed over from the US Military Government.

The purpose is to reflect on the meaning of judicial independence and to reaffirm the court's role and mission.