Chief Justice Jo Hee-de said on the 11th that "only when courts adjudicate neutrally and fairly, in accordance solely with the Constitution and laws, free from improper interference or influence not only from other state institutions, political power, and social forces but also from litigants, can they fully guarantee the people's freedom and rights and realize the rule of law."
In a commemorative address at the ceremony for the 12th "Korea Courts Day" held at the Supreme Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul, that day, Chief Justice Jo said the court is an "independent state institution under the Constitution" and stated accordingly.
Chief Justice Jo said, "Even amid any difficulty, unwaveringly carrying out this constitutional mission is the unchanging duty given to our judiciary, the last bastion that protects the people's basic rights," and added, "The court will exercise judicial power rightly, only for the people."
Addressing members of the judiciary, Chief Justice Jo said, "Complex and difficult cases are increasing by the day, and there are more instances where social conflict and intense confrontation lead to litigation," adding, "The sharper the conflict, the more the court must, without wavering, fulfill its role solely in accordance with the law and principles."