Seoul: South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in a Seoul court on Thursday for the first hearing of his criminal trial over insurrection charges, as his lawyers urged the court to release him from detention.
TV footage broadcasted by local media showed justice ministry vehicles leaving the Seoul Detention Center, where Yoon is being held, and arriving at the court under heavy security, with police buses lined up outside.
Defense Challenges Detention
During the hearing, Yoon’s legal team argued that his detention should be overturned, asserting that the investigation into the insurrection allegations was conducted unlawfully. They also claimed that Yoon posed no risk of tampering with evidence.
The former president was indicted last month after prosecutors accused him of leading an insurrection through his short-lived declaration of martial law on December 3. The charges—unprecedented for a sitting South Korean leader—carry severe penalties, and a conviction could result in years of imprisonment.
Yoon’s imposition of martial law, which sought to ban political and parliamentary activities while asserting control over the media, triggered significant political turmoil in South Korea. The crisis led to the impeachment and suspension of the prime minister, along with the indictment of several top military officials accused of being involved in the alleged insurrection.
Calls for Swift Proceedings
Prosecutors on Thursday urged the court to expedite proceedings, emphasizing the gravity of the case. However, Yoon’s legal team requested more time to review case records.
Yoon had “no intention to paralyze the country,” one of his lawyers told the court, arguing that the martial law decree was merely intended as a warning against the “legislative dictatorship of the huge opposition party.”
Also Read | Australian Children Easily Bypass Social Media Age Limits, Report Finds
The judge scheduled the next hearing for March 24.
Parallel Impeachment Trial
Yoon is also facing an impeachment trial before the Constitutional Court, which has entered its final phase. The top court is set to hear testimony from witnesses, including Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, later on Thursday. According to media reports, Yoon is also expected to attend the impeachment trial hearing.
The Constitutional Court is reviewing the National Assembly’s decision to impeach Yoon on December 14. Its ruling will determine whether he will be permanently removed from office or reinstated.
Also Read | Panama Relocates U.S.-Deported Migrants Amid Growing Concerns
Yoon and his legal team have maintained that his martial law declaration was not meant for full implementation but was merely a warning to break the political deadlock.
If the court upholds his impeachment, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days.
