Justice Mayongju: "I Will Uphold the Constitution and Devote Myself to Judicial Independence"

New Supreme Court Justice Mayongju was inaugurated on the 9th. In his inaugural speech, Justice Ma stated, "I will dedicate myself to upholding the Constitution and protecting the independence of the judiciary."

Mayongju, the newly appointed Supreme Court Justice, is delivering his inaugural address at the inauguration ceremony held on the 9th at the Supreme Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul. Photo by Yonhap News

At the inauguration ceremony held at the Supreme Court building in Seocho-gu, Seoul, Justice Ma said, "In the nation's grave situation over the past few months, we have been able to confirm the public's demands for the judiciary," adding, "These demands are to uphold the Constitution, protect the independence of the judiciary, and faithfully carry out the judiciary's fundamental duty of adjudication."

Justice Ma emphasized, "Trials must be swift and fair," and said, "We must gather internal wisdom to enhance the overall capabilities and work efficiency of the judiciary." He also stated that members of the judiciary should unite as one to maximize their capabilities.

Furthermore, he said, "Many people express concern about the current state of the judiciary, advising that judicial independence does not mean judicial isolation," and added, "Regardless of the intent behind judicial independence, we must reflect on whether we have become isolated and withdrawn from one another, and whether this has hindered our work capabilities and efficiency."

Justice Ma stated, "The law is a product of absolute reason, but its interpretation and application must be rooted in reality. Above all, it must align with common sense that all citizens, as subjects of the law, can accept," and added, "I believe that the conclusion I reach must answer whether it aligns with common sense, as only then can the public accept it as a just conclusion."

Justice Ma was nominated as the successor to Justice Kimsanghwan, who retired on December 27 last year, but his appointment was delayed for over three months due to ongoing political turmoil following the martial law. His inauguration came 103 days after the National Assembly's approval of his appointment.