The impeachment trial of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol began today, but the president was absent from the Constitutional Court.
The impeachment trial of South Korea’s suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol commenced today with a brief session, as Yoon failed to appear at the Constitutional Court. The trial follows Yoon’s impeachment by the National Assembly over his controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024.
Yoon’s absence from the trial has raised concerns, with his lawyer explaining that the president’s inability to attend was due to authorities attempting to detain him, preventing him from presenting his case. "The president will decide whether to attend the court in person on Thursday after discussions on his defense strategy," said Yoon's lawyer, Yoon Kab-keun, outside the court.
The next trial session is scheduled for Thursday, January 16. Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae has stated that if President Yoon does not attend, his legal team will represent him in court.
Yoon’s impeachment came after his controversial declaration of martial law, which the National Assembly deemed unconstitutional. The proceedings mark a significant moment in South Korean politics as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the decision and its implications for the future of the presidency.
Read next
09:54
South Korea, China, and Japan held their first economic dialogue in five years on Sunday, aiming to strengthen regional trade cooperation amid growing concerns over U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump.
12:05
South Korea Wildfires
South Korea is facing its worst wildfire disaster, with blazes doubling in size and killing at least 27 people. Over 33,000 hectares have burned, destroying historic temples as firefighters battle the flames. Strong winds and dry conditions fuel the rapid spread of the fires.
21:30
Court Ruling
A South Korean appeals court has cleared opposition leader Lee Jae-myung of election law violations, overturning a previous conviction that could have hindered his presidential aspirations, though prosecutors plan to appeal the ruling.
12:33
South Korea
Deadly wildfires in South Korea’s southeastern region have claimed at least 18 lives and forced over 27,000 residents to flee. Thousands of firefighters, supported by military personnel, are battling the blazes, which have destroyed neighborhoods and threatened UNESCO World Heritage sites.
01:47
At least 15 people have died as wildfires continue to ravage South Korea’s southeastern region, Yonhap News Agency reported on Wednesday.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment