Chief Justice Choi Hee-dae on Supreme Court Justice Expansion Bill: "Will Consult with National Assembly on Desirable Direction"

"Supreme Court Justice Expansion Bill
Will Be Discussed with the National Assembly"

Chief Justice Choi Hee-dae is entering the Supreme Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the afternoon of the 1st to deliver the verdict on the appeal trial of Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, regarding the violation of the Public Official Election Act. 2025.05.01 Photo by Joint Press Corps

Regarding the 'Supreme Court Justice Expansion Bill' being promoted by the ruling party, Chief Justice Choi Hee-dae stated, "We will continue to consult with the National Assembly."

On his way to work today (June 5), Chief Justice Choi told reporters, "I believe it is necessary to continue explaining to the National Assembly and seek cooperation on what the original functions of the Supreme Court, as stipulated by our Constitution and laws, are, and what the most desirable direction for reform is for the benefit of the people."

Chief Justice Choi also added that he "hopes a forum for public discussion will be established."

When asked whether increasing the number of Supreme Court justices could resolve issues such as trial delays and diversity, he responded, "Since this is an issue that concerns the nation's long-term future and has been discussed for a long time, I plan to provide further explanations through the administrative office and continue the discussions."

Previously, on June 5, the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee held a legislative review subcommittee and, led by the ruling party, passed a bill to increase the number of Supreme Court justices from the current 14 to a total of 30 by adding 4 each year over the next 4 years, starting next year.