Kim Seongsu: "Lee Remand Was Somewhat Unusual"... "President and Chief Justice Should Show Mutual Respect"

Confirmation Hearing Held on the 14th

Supreme Court nominee Sungsoo Kim is delivering opening remarks at a confirmation hearing held at the National Assembly on September 14, 2026. Photo by Dongju Yoon

Supreme Court nominee Kim Sungsoo stated that the Supreme Court's remand and reversal decision in May last year regarding President Lee Jaemyung’s violation of the Public Official Election Act was "somewhat unusual in terms of procedural conduct."

At today’s National Assembly confirmation hearing, Kim made this comment in response to a question from Assemblyman Chae Hyunil of the Democratic Party of Korea, who asked, "Is it possible for the Supreme Court's Grand Bench to conclude a presidential election law case in just nine days?"

However, Kim added, "In specific cases, the panel of judges comprehensively reviews the various circumstances and decides how to proceed with the process."

Meanwhile, when Assemblyman Joo Jinwoo of the People Power Party asked, "If the Supreme Court remands a case with a conviction in mind, does the appellate court follow that decision?" Kim refrained from giving a direct answer, replying, "There may be circumstances where the facts need to be reexamined."

Referencing the recent controversy over the re-nomination of justices between the Blue House and the Supreme Court, Assemblyman Joo asked, "Is the Chief Justice subordinate to the President?" Kim responded, "I believe they are in positions that require mutual respect." He added, "I am aware through media reports of the Blue House’s request for a re-nomination," and continued, "I understand that the Chief Justice has been deliberating for a long time and is taking into account not only multiple legal arguments but also the political situation."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.