Supreme Court Chief Warns Beleaguered Justice Shin

Supreme Court Chief Justice Lee Yong-hoon yesterday expressed regret over and warned Justice Shin Young-chul, who has sparked controversy over trial interference.

Shin apologized for his behavior, saying, “I modestly accept the warning of the chief justice,” but issued no official response.

Lee said in a statement, “I gave a stern warning to Shin on his inappropriate behavior, which could be considered trial interference while he served as head of the Seoul Central District Court. I am sorry that Shin’s behavior hurt the feelings of his colleagues and damaged the public’s trust in the nation’s judiciary.”

Lee, however, did not bring the matter to the disciplinary committee, saying Shin’s behavior deserves no disiplinary measures. The chief justice is likely to have followed the recommendation of the Supreme Court`s ethics committee of issuing a warning or admonition to Shin.

Certain judges and court staff have criticized both Lee’s warning and Shin’s apology and urged Shin to step down on Web posts. Senior judges said, however, that the chief justice made the decision in accordance with relevant procedures, and that if judges ignore the decision and urge Shin to step down, the people will not follow rulings.”

bell@donga.com