■ Overview
Today, Chief Justice Kim Myeongsu nominated Jeju District Court’s Chief Judge Oh Suk-joon to President Yoon Suk-yeol for the open seat as a Supreme Court Justice. This vacancy occurred with the retirement of Justice Kim Jae-hyung, whose term of judgeship ended under Article 104, Clause 2 of the Korean Constitution.
■ Recommendation Process
To receive candidates with good character and competence to fill the position of Justice, the Chief Justice accepted recommendations through an impartial, transparent process. The public recommended candidates to fill the position of Justice, and those submitted underwent a screening process for appointment. The candidates’ educational background, work experience, financial assets, and criminal records were also disclosed. In addition, the Chief Justice also gathered comprehensive opinions of those recommended persons through a formal process.
After evaluation, the Chief Justice presented those without clear grounds for disqualification to the Committee for Recommendation of Supreme Court Justice Candidates. The Committee then examined the eligibility of those recommended. Names of three final nominees were given to the Chief Justice for the Supreme Court Justice position after reviewing each person’s qualifications based on letters of recommendation, written opinions, and gathered information.
The Chief Justice considered the opinions of people from a wide range of social backgrounds to nominate the best-fit candidate for the Justice position. Key decisions and particular works of the three final candidates were made public while diverse opinions were gathered from within and outside the Judiciary through a formal process.
Consequently, the Chief Justice recommended Chief Judge Oh Suk-joon of the Jeju District Court to President Yoon Suk-yeol for appointment as a Supreme Court Justice. Chief Judge Oh has attributes and qualities that a Supreme Court Justice should possess. This includes a firm belief in judicial independence, guaranteeing fundamental rights, and the awareness of the human rights of those socially vulnerable and minorities. In addition, he has captured social diversity and is mindful of the changes occurring in our times with deep insight and discernment. He is also equipped with superb legal knowledge and the ability to make reasonable and impartial judgments.
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