Veteran judge nominated as Supreme Court justice

A veteran chief judge of a local court was nominated to become a Supreme Court justice Saturday, the top court's officials said.

They said Supreme Court Chief Justice Yang Sung-tae has picked Cho Hee-dae, the top judge at the Daegu District Court, as the candidate to replace outgoing Supreme Court justice Cha Han-sung.

Cho, 56, became a judge in Seoul in 1986. The Supreme Court said Cho beat out four others to earn his candidacy.

The nomination is pending approval by President Park Geun-hye, followed by a confirmation hearing at the National Assembly. The process must be completed within 20 days.

The top court said Cho has covered a wide range of issues and has dedicated his career to ensuring the people's right to fair trial.

The Supreme Court added Yang made his decision based on Cho's experience and expertise, as well as his work ethic and character. (Yonhap News)