The ruling party has expressed concerns over allegations of intervention in the judiciary, saying that the judiciary should instead resume trials involving the president. On the 29th, Rep. Jang Dong-hyuk of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea said at a press conference at the National Assembly that, “If the allegations are true, it is a serious issue that undermines the separation of powers and the rule of law,” and added, “The judiciary should respond to this issue with a strong sense of responsibility.” Regarding the recent controversy over Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon’s personnel intervention in the judiciary and Chief Justice Lee Hong-seok’s emergency meeting with prosecutors, Rep. Jang said, “The judiciary should be careful in its response,” and added, “The judiciary should show the people that it is not shaken by the executive or legislative branches.” Rep. Jang emphasized, “The judiciary should resume trials involving the president and high-ranking government officials,” and said, “In particular, the trial of former President Park Geun-hye and President Moon Jae-in’s corruption case should be resumed quickly.” On the same day, Rep. Cho Huide of the main opposition People Power Party also held a press conference and said, “The people will not acknowledge a judiciary that is under the control of the executive or legislative branches,” and added, “The judiciary should restore the public’s trust.” Earlier on the 28th, Rep. Kim Chong-in, the interim leader of the People Power Party, also expressed concerns over allegations of intervention in the judiciary, saying, “If true, it is a serious threat to democracy.” On the 27th, it was reported that Minister Han Dong-hoon had exercised influence over the judiciary, including recommending the reversal of a high court ruling in a case involving the prosecution’s appeal. On the same day, Chief Justice Lee Hong-seok reportedly held an emergency meeting with prosecutors and recommended that they appeal a case involving a former justice minister.
We haven't written up this one. Hankyoreh has the full story — the link below goes straight to it.
