South Korea’s chief justice has chosen five candidates to replace the outgoing Supreme Court justices. The nominees consist of two reformists and three conservatives; four are men.
The Supreme Court says that it has chosen the candidates based on their ability and future-oriented mindset. However, it is no denying that the factor of seniority figured in to the choices, given that they consist of four sitting judges and a ranking prosecutor. Professors, younger judges and those from colleges other than Seoul National University were all excluded.
Insiders at the Supreme Court seem satisfied with the choices, pointing out that, if nominated, the justices would to some extent ease the court’s long-prevailing conservative color. However, the choices still fall short of reflecting the full diversity of South Korean society.
Anticipation of the announcement of nominees has been very high, as there will be no changes in the composition of the court until 2009. The new justices, if endorsed, will bear the responsibility of spearheading reform of the Supreme Court.
[Editorial] New supreme court justices cut a diverse profile |
