DPK urges high court to postpone review of verdict against presidential candidate Lee until after June election
The Democratic Party of Korea's presidential candidate, Lee Jae-myung, right, is seen talking to the People Power Party's candidate Kim Moon-soo at a ceremony celebrating Buddha's birthday at Jogye Temple in central Seoul, Monday. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul
The Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) called on the Seoul High Court, Monday, to push back the review of a verdict against its presidential candidate, Lee Jae-myung, until after the June 3 election, vowing to use all of its powers to prevent what it called "a judiciary coup."
The DPK statement came as it has been mulling whether to seek the impeachment of Supreme Court Chief Justice Cho Hee-dae, after the top court overturned the high court's acquittal in an Election Law violation case involving Lee, Thursday, sending it back to the high court.
The first hearing of the review trial is scheduled to take place May 15.
"If the high court does not decide to postpone the trial by May 12, (we) will prevent the judiciary's coup from taking place by using all the powers given by the people to the legislative branch," Rep. Yun Ho-jung, a senior official of the DPK's election committee, said in a press conference.
May 12 is the date official campaigning starts for the June presidential election
"(We) clearly express our intent to block the high court's trial proceedings," he said, adding that the legislative branch would "make punishments" on behalf of the people if such efforts are hindered.
Yun's remarks suggest that the DPK could seek the impeachment of Chief Justice Cho. On Sunday, the party decided to put off a decision on whether to do this after an emergency meeting of its lawmakers.
The DPK's call comes as Lee could lose his eligibility to run for office for five years if he receives a finalized sentence of a fine of 1 million won (US$717) or more for violating the Election Law.
Lee's presidential bid could be jeopardized if the final sentence is confirmed before the June 3 election day.
When asked about the DPK's call to push back the trial, Lee told reporters that election campaigns must be ensured in a "fair" way, citing the Constitution.
He also said he would "respect" whatever decision his party makes when asked about the DPK considering impeaching a Supreme Court justice.
"I believe the party will take the necessary measures in line with the perspective of the people to overcome this insurrection," he said. "I will respect the party's decision on the party's duties."
DPK Rep. Park Sung-joon clarified in a radio interview Monday that the party has decided to leave all decisions up to its leadership, rather than putting them on hold.
"There were opinions on even considering impeachment while leaving all possibilities open if the Supreme Court and the high court continue on with their unconstitutional and illegal behavior."