Seoul: Representative judges from courts nationwide expressed concern on Monday over a ruling Democratic Party (DP) bill aimed at establishing a special tribunal for insurrection cases. They warned that the new tribunal could compromise the independence of the judiciary.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the Democratic Party has been advocating for the creation of this special tribunal, arguing that it is necessary due to perceived delays and unfairness in the trials of individuals involved in insurrection cases linked to former President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed attempt to impose martial law. Judges, however, have voiced their apprehensions, suggesting that such a move could undermine judicial independence.

During a regular meeting, the judges issued a statement highlighting their concerns about the two bills proposed by the DP. They emphasized the importance of incorporating judges' opinions into discussions on judicial improvements. "The public's expectations and demands of the judiciary as well as the opinions of judges in charge of trials must be sufficiently reflected in the discussions," they stated.

The meeting came shortly after top judges from across the country also expressed their unease on Friday regarding the DP's judicial reform bills. Despite opposition from the main opposition People Power Party, DP lawmakers successfully passed the two bills through the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee on Wednesday.

In addition to the special tribunal proposal, another bill on the table seeks to impose penalties on judges and prosecutors who intentionally distort legal principles or manipulate facts during trials or investigations.