Song Young-gil, a candidate for the leadership of the Democratic Party, announced on August 5 that he would push for the impeachment of Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae. He stated that if elected as party leader, this would become the party's official stance.
After a press conference at the National Assembly, Song told reporters, "I believe we can no longer delay this, as Chief Justice Cho has been neglecting his duties by failing to recommend a successor for the Supreme Court justices."
He further commented on Cho's delay in recommending a successor, saying, "It appears he intends to turn the judiciary into his own organization."
Song emphasized, "I believe there was tacit cooperation between the martial law forces on the night of the martial law. What was discussed during the Supreme Court's emergency late-night meeting that night?"
He acknowledged that some party members have raised concerns about the impeachment process but asserted, "We will go through a deliberative process to initiate the impeachment of Chief Justice Cho and suspend his duties."
Additionally, amid recent discussions about 'dark elections' where voting occurs before campaigning, Song remarked, "Voting should take place after the campaign ends, but this election has seen voting happening after the campaign, which is out of order. Since candidate Jeong Cheong-rae emphasized the principle of one vote per member, I believe providing opportunities for those who have not voted can be positively considered."
As calls for Song to unify with fellow pro-Myeong candidate Kim Min-seok continue, he responded, "It seems there is a misunderstanding of the meaning of the preference voting system. If I resign midway, my votes would be counted as invalid." He also indicated his intention to create a turning point as the primary election begins in his political hometown of Incheon on August 8. Currently, Song is polling at about 10% support.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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