Supreme Court chief says will clarify stance over justice recommendation at parliamentary audit

Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae of the Supreme Court announced on Monday his intention to clarify his stance on refusing to recommend a new justice candidate during the upcoming annual parliamentary audit. The chief justice has been at odds with the presidential office regarding the recommendation request. Last month, the presidential office approached Cho to suggest a fresh nominee for President Lee Jae Myung.

However, Cho declined the request on Friday, stating that he does not possess specific reasons or constitutional justification to comply. When questioned about the matter on Monday, Cho assured reporters that he would articulate his position through the parliamentary audit of the court, which is scheduled to commence on October 6th.

Cho's refusal last week drew immediate criticism from Cheong Wa Dae, who accused him of harboring a view that contravenes the Constitution. According to the Constitution, Supreme Court justices are appointed by the president based on the chief justice's recommendation and with the approval of the National Assembly.