Busan: Kim Min-seok, former prime minister and the newly elected chief of the ruling Democratic Party (DP), has publicly called for the resignation of Supreme Court Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae. The call comes in response to Cho's written recommendation of two new Supreme Court justice nominees to the president, bypassing the traditional face-to-face meeting.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim criticized Cho during a party leadership meeting, labeling him as the "worst chief justice" since the nation's liberation. Kim questioned how Cho could engage in what he described as judicial misconduct with no apparent remorse. The controversy centers around Cho's recommendation of Son Bong-kie from the Daegu District Court and Kim Sung-soo from the Seoul High Court as new Supreme Court justices.

Traditionally, the chief justice meets with the president to personally recommend new Supreme Court justices after prior discussions. However, Cho deviated from this norm by submitting his recommendations in writing, a move that has sparked criticism and allegations of misconduct.

Kim further lambasted Cho, comparing his actions to those of a delinquent student seeking expulsion, and criticized him for attempting to retire dishonorably, similar to former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. The DP leader accused Cho of violating legal protocols and acting irregularly, especially in light of recent calls for his impeachment.

Kim urged the remaining Supreme Court justices to issue a statement condemning Cho's actions, expressing confidence that the public would be outraged by the chief justice's conduct.