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Author 국제팀 Hit 132 Date 2025-01-14 오후 4:28:00
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[New Year's Address of the KBA President] Committed to Upholding the Rule of Law and Enhancing the Rights and Interests of the People

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Committed to Upholding the Rule of Law 

and Enhancing the Rights and Interests of the People

 

 

Esteemed Members of the Korean Bar Association( the ‘KBA’),

 

The year 2025, the Year of the Blue Snake (청사, 靑蛇), has dawned.

Since ancient times, the snake has been regarded as a symbol of flexibility and wisdom. May this year, inspired by the snake's symbolic qualities, bring a smooth and harmonious journey for all our members.

 

I would like to express my profound gratitude for the dedication and unwavering commitment that our esteemed members have demonstrated in fulfilling their respective duties over the past year.

 

The previous year saw the Republic of Korea enduring a tumultuous period marked by extreme political turmoil and an economic downturn. In the face of such chaos, the KBA stood resolute, upholding the rule of law and reinforcing the legal profession’s role as a cornerstone of the judicial system. We have deliberated tirelessly on measures to safeguard our nation’s constitutional order and legal principles, implementing decisive actions to strengthen the foundation of the rule of law.

 

At the end of last year, the unprecedented declaration of martial law by the President, followed by the ensuing impeachment proceedings, sent shock waves through our society. Intense debates surrounding these crises are expected to persist for the foreseeable future. In immediate response, the KBA issued a resolute statement reinforcing the legal profession’s vital role as a cornerstone of the judicial system. We firmly demanded the revocation of this unconstitutional action and took the lead in addressing this national crisis, ensuring that the rule of law remained unshaken even in the face of historical upheaval.

 

Moreover, throughout the past year, the KBA has made significant strides in its engagements with the judiciary and the National Assembly. Through persistent advocacy, we achieved a significant adjustment in the remuneration for Public defender for the second consecutive year. Our continued efforts to institutionalize attorney-client privilege(ACP) resulted in the proposal of three amendments to the Attorney-at-Law Act in the 22nd National Assembly.

 

We have steadfastly opposed various legislative attempts to undermine the legal profession, ensuring that the legal community remains resilient against external pressures. In our efforts to uphold public order and integrity within the legal market, we took regulatory action against unlawful practices by private legal platforms. This led to the Korea Fair Trade Commission imposing penalties on the KBA, which we firmly argued were unlawful. Actively contesting these measures, we secured a ruling from the Seoul High Court that annulled all imposed fines. This decision reaffirmed the validity of our long-standing commitment to maintaining order in the legal market.

 

Furthermore, we have diligently pursued initiatives aimed at enhancing both the professional competencies and welfare of our members. Through the Korean Lawyers’ Credit Union, we have implemented support programs for for members facing difficulties due to illness or accidents. Additionally, we have established an interest-free loan program to assist in cases of liability compensation. Additionally, we have been working in collaboration with insurance companies to develop legal insurance products tailored to our national context, aiming to enhance public access to legal services in the future.

 

Esteemed Members,

 

The past year was like navigating turbulent seas amidst formidable waves. The winds were fierce, and the waters were deep, yet we persevered with unwavering resolve. In the year ahead, the KBA, in solidarity with our members, will continue to overcome challenges with wisdom and resilience.

 

As we embark on this new year, I extend my heartfelt wishes for health, prosperity, and boundless blessings for you, your families, and your professional endeavors.

 

Thank you.

 

 

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