Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae has raised significant concerns regarding the South Korean government's proposed judicial reform bills put forth by the ruling Democratic Party. In recent remarks, he indicated that these reforms, which include the criminalization of legal distortions, the introduction of new litigation rules, and an increase in the number of Supreme Court Justices, are profound changes that could fundamentally alter the framework of the judicial system established nearly 80 years ago. Cho emphasized that such legislative changes could even warrant constitutional amendments, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

During his comments, Cho noted that the nation's legal framework differs substantially from Germany's, despite some arguments favoring the adoption of German judicial review practices. He criticized the notion that South Korea could mirror Germany's experiences with legal reforms without addressing the fundamental differences in their constitutions. This perspective was shaped by the Constitutional Court’s recent release of materials referencing the German model, which suggests potential benefits from introducing similar reforms in South Korea. Cho's opposition to this comparison underscores his call for a tailored approach that considers unique national contexts.

Stressing the importance of public consensus and expert opinions, Chief Justice Cho advocated for extensive discussions on these reform initiatives before any legislative action. He reiterated the necessity for the National Assembly to be well-informed and engaged in dialogue regarding these significant changes, aiming to ensure that public sentiment and expert advice are integral to the decision-making process. As the ruling party prepares to introduce the reform bills in an upcoming session, Cho's statements serve as a reminder of the critical need for careful deliberation over the future of South Korea's judiciary.