Judiciary Committee Pushes Ahead With Cho Hee-dae Hearing Without Cho... "Democratic Party to Press Chief Justice Again During Audit"

Democratic Party Cautious on Impeachment of Chief Justice
Unlikely to Propose Additional Measures Such as Accompanying Order
Customary Early Departure of Chief Justice May Not Be Permitted During National Assembly Audit

The National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee is holding an 'Emergency Hearing on Presidential Election Interference Allegations' on September 30, despite the absence of key witnesses, including Supreme Court Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae.

The Democratic Party plans to press allegations of election interference regarding the Supreme Court's decision in May to remand the case of then-presidential candidate Lee Jaemyung for a guilty verdict under the Public Official Election Act.

Jeon Hyunhee, a Supreme Council member of the Democratic Party, stated on YTN Radio that day, "We requested that Chief Justice Cho personally resolve and thoroughly explain to the public the series of incidents undermining trust in the judiciary. However, he submitted a letter of non-attendance, indicating he will not appear."

Yonhap News

The Democratic Party discussed the possibility of postponing the hearing due to the absence of key witnesses but decided to proceed as scheduled. However, with major witnesses-including Chief Justice Cho, former Prime Minister Han Ducksoo, Supreme Court Justices Oh Kyungmi, Lee Heunggu, Lee Sookyeon, and Park Youngjae, Court Administration Chief Cheon Daeyeop, and Seoul Central District Court Judge Ji Guyoun-declaring their intention not to attend, the effectiveness of the hearing has become questionable.

Meanwhile, issues surrounding the Judiciary Committee hearing are expected to be further addressed during the 2025 National Assembly audit, which will begin right after the Chuseok holiday. Democratic Party members of the Judiciary Committee plan to question Chief Justice Cho regarding various allegations. Jeon, the Supreme Council member, said, "When the audit is held, the Chief Justice usually attends and, by convention, is allowed to leave after exchanging greetings. However, rather than leaving, it would be better for him to provide a thorough explanation to the public." This statement suggests that the customary early departure of the Chief Justice may not be permitted and that he may be required to answer questions.