Statement Regarding Recent Supreme Court Decision on Democratic Party Presidential Candidate Lee Jae-myung

May 5, 2025

The recent decision by the Supreme Court concerning presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung raises serious concerns regarding procedural fairness and the timing of judicial processes. We respect the role and independence of our nation's judiciary; however, the exceptional circumstances surrounding this decision warrant clarification.

First, the timeline of this ruling was notably rushed. The Supreme Court, in an unprecedented move, reassigned the case to a full panel and rendered its decision within just nine days—a timeline markedly shorter than in previous cases of comparable complexity. For context, the initial trial took over two years, the second trial four months, and yet the final Supreme Court decision was delivered only 36 days after the appellate ruling. This accelerated schedule compromised the thoroughness and procedural transparency fundamental to judicial fairness.

Second, Supreme Court internal regulations require detailed preparation and reporting by court researchers ahead of full-panel deliberations. In this case, deliberations began the same day the case was reassigned, leaving insufficient time for a comprehensive review of approximately 70,000 pages of legal documentation. Such expedited proceedings raise genuine questions about the depth and fairness of judicial review.

According to Article 11 of Korea’s Public Official Election Act, presidential candidates are afforded specific protections to ensure fair competition during the election period. The decision to proceed at such speed in this matter deviates from established norms and raises legitimate concerns about the equal treatment of candidates. This provision exists to safeguard the electoral process from undue legal or administrative interference.

In the case of Candidate Lee Jae-myung, the rapid progression of judicial proceedings—culminating in a Supreme Court decision rendered in just over a week—raises reasonable questions regarding procedural impartiality. Especially in a case involving extensive documentation, the pace challenges expectations for due diligence and the right to a fair process. The proximity of this ruling to the presidential campaign timeline also introduces the risk of perceived electoral interference.

Candidate Lee Jae-myung reiterates his full commitment to due process and democratic principles. While respecting the independence of the judiciary, he calls for transparency in addressing procedural anomalies that may undermine public trust in Korea’s democratic institutions.

We respectfully urge international observers and members of the diplomatic community to consider these facts in good faith, in support of the shared values of legal integrity, democratic fairness, and institutional balance—particularly during this critical electoral period.