▲ Democratic Party of Korea leader Kim Min-seok delivers greetings at the 2026 Democratic Party of Korea-Busan City Budget and Policy Consultation held at Busan City Hall on October 2.
Democratic Party of Korea leader Kim Min-seok told Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae—who stated there is "no constitutional basis" regarding the re-nomination of Supreme Court justice candidates—that "if he cannot handle such an issue, it would be better for him to step down."
Kim made the remarks today (October 7) during an appearance on "MinT 07" on the YouTube channel "Minjoo Party TV."
Referring to Chief Justice Cho's operational expense records listing hotel restaurants and other venues that came under scrutiny during yesterday's parliamentary audit by the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee, Kim criticized, "While he might have felt embarrassed and in an awkward situation, wondering 'Do I even have to talk about omakase?', that also stems from his inability to handle the re-nomination issue."
Regarding the recent controversy over military service exemptions for national team athletes in Asian Games ball sports, Kim pointed out, "As the times have changed and the country's stature has changed, there is an awareness of the issue that we need to significantly overhaul or adjust the beneficiaries and methods (of military service exemptions)."
He continued, "I think that awareness is correct, and several lawmakers have already proposed legislation ranging from abolishing (the exemptions) to restricting the sports eligible," adding, "We tentatively agreed to leave the broad review of 'it would be better to adjust them' to the lawmakers."
Addressing voices from hardliners within the party who oppose the appointment of Kim Ji-yong, the nominee to head the Serious Crime Investigation Agency, Kim said, "I told them that the time has come for the party to rein in this issue, and I believe they will not speak further on that matter."
He emphasized, "Because the issue regarding the head of the Serious Crime Investigation Agency can also be addressed through confirmation hearings, now that individual opinions have been sufficiently expressed, it is better to handle it at the hearing."
The previous day, Kim had also stated on "MinT 07," "At a time when we should focus on livelihood reforms, if there is a concern that the president's leadership could be undermined as in the past due to excessive demands or claims, it is also time for the party to step in and control it."
In addition, regarding allegations of Shincheonji's intervention raised during the August 17 national convention election process, Kim added, "Supreme Council Member Park Sun-won was in charge of investigating it, and as that has been wrapped up, I understand they are reviewing how to disclose the findings."
(Photo: Yonhap News)
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