Chief Justice Jo Hee-de to Resolve Supreme Court Justice Vacancy, Vows Efforts at Audit

Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Cho Heedae said on the 6th at the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee audit of the Supreme Court that he would do everything necessary to ensure the Supreme Court is fully staffed in connection with the current vacancy of Supreme Court justices. In his closing remarks at the audit, which continued late into the night, Chief Justice Cho said he would humbly accept criticism and advice and carry it forward into changes the public can feel. He also conveyed his apologies to lawmakers who expressed concern over the issue of renomination of Supreme Court justices, and said he would review budget execution to align with the public's expectations. During the audit that day, questions from ruling party lawmakers also continued regarding the recommendation and appointment of Supreme Court justices. Rep. Park Jiewon said the related procedures should be viewed from the perspective of unwritten constitutional custom, and Rep. Park Kyuntaek argued that the Chief Justice's remarks and interpretation of authority amount to grounds for impeachment. The audit concluded late at night.