Criticism of Judicial Reform Across the Legal Sector
On September 2, 2025, the non-profit organization “Good Lawmakers” issued a strong statement condemning the move to establish a Special Court for Rebellion proposed by the Democratic Party of Korea, which holds a majority in the National Assembly. The organization, consisting of 232 attorneys among over 250 members, argues that such measures violate the fundamental principles of the Constitution and democracy.
In their statement, Good Lawmakers emphasized that establishing a Special Court for Rebellion would infringe upon constitutional rights and judicial independence as outlined in Article 27 and Article 104 (3) of the Constitution, which safeguard the right to a fair trial and restrict external influences on judicial appointments. Kim Hyun, the executive director, cautioned that the proposal could lead to structural issues undermining justice, referencing historical precedents like the Special Investigation Committee for Anti-National Acts and the March 15 Special Court.
Various legal organizations, including the Lawyers for Human Rights and Unification of Korea, are also preparing to express their opposition. These groups view the special court initiative as a threat to judicial fairness and integrity.
The Supreme Court’s Office of Court Administration has conveyed a cautious stance, reflecting the judiciary’s growing opposition. Judges, including those from the Seoul Central District Court and other regional courts, have raised concerns about the potential for compromised judicial independence.
Former judges have also voiced apprehensions, stressing that the establishment of a special court would mark a severe breach of judicial independence. Former Supreme Court researcher Hong Seung-myeon criticized the exclusion of the Supreme Court from deliberations on this matter, highlighting the magnitude of these concerns within the legal community.