Seoul:Supreme Court Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae announced plans to clarify his stance regarding his refusal to recommend a new candidate for the top court during the upcoming annual parliamentary audit.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the dispute arose after the presidential office requested Chief Justice Cho to recommend a new justice candidate to President Lee Jae Myung last month. Cho refused, citing a lack of specific reasons or constitutional grounds for the request.
Cho, addressing the issue on Monday, informed reporters that he would express his position during the parliamentary audit of the court, which is scheduled to commence on October 6.
The refusal by Cho prompted a swift response from Cheong Wa Dae, criticizing him for holding a view that allegedly violates the Constitution. According to constitutional procedures, Supreme Court justices are appointed by the president following the chief justice's recommendation and with the National Assembly's consent.