Korean Judiciary Chief Emphasizes Role of Justice Amidst Turmoil

On June 19, 2025, Cheon Dae-yeop, the Chief of the Court Administration Office, delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of the Integrated Control Center held at the Seoul Western District Court in Mapo-gu, Seoul. He addressed the need for the judiciary to play a stabilizing role in a time of significant societal conflict.

Cheon visited the court, which had experienced a violent intrusion in January, stating, "In an era marked by division and conflict, the judiciary must serve as a crucial pillar of stability." His remarks came during a ceremony to unveil a replacement for a calligraphy piece that was damaged during the January incident, where supporters of former President Yoon Suk-yeol stormed the courthouse in protest against the issuance of an arrest warrant for him.

Reflecting on the events of January 19, Cheon noted, "The illegal intrusion and acts of violence shattered the courthouse's glass and damaged various facilities and furnishings. It has left a significant scar on the public's trust in the rule of law, which the judiciary is meant to uphold." He emphasized the importance of restoring public confidence in the legal system and suggested that the judiciary must reflect on its role in fostering understanding and trust among citizens.

Cheon expressed hope that the recent turmoil would serve as a growing pain leading to a more mature rule of law. A court official stated that the event symbolically marked the recovery from the damages caused by the January incident.