On the 16th, new National Court Administration Minister Park Young-jae said, "Through improvements to the judicial system and practice, the courts must be reborn as institutions trusted by the people."
At the inauguration ceremony that day, Minister Park said, "I extend my deep gratitude to all the court family members who, despite many difficult circumstances, are devoted to their assigned duties, including trial work," adding, "I also express deep thanks and respect to former Minister Chun Dae-yup, who steadfastly led judicial administration and devoted himself even under difficult conditions."
Minister Park said, "The reason the public's demand for change in the judiciary is so great is likely because the judiciary has fallen short in earning the people's trust," and added, "We must humbly accept the people's grave voices."
He went on, "We must identify where the fundamental cause of distrust in the judiciary lies and fix and improve it," adding, "With a broad perspective and careful execution, we must improve the judicial system and practice so the courts can be reborn as institutions trusted by the people."
Minister Park said, "If members of the judiciary pool their wisdom and will and work to achieve a desirable reform of the judicial system, the judiciary will be able to better guarantee the people's basic rights and contribute more to the realization of a happy life," adding, "With an open mind, I will communicate with our members and strive to speak with and persuade the public, including related institutions such as the National Assembly and the executive branch."
He also said, "You are meeting the strong tide of change on the front line," adding, "In this extraordinary situation where multiple judicial reform proposals are being discussed simultaneously, I am deeply grateful for the devoted efforts you have made for the public and your colleagues."
He added, "As public servants of the people, we must defend the Constitution and fulfill our duties under any adversity," adding, "I will take the lead so that I can do my utmost to create an atmosphere and environment where you can work without wavering."