South Korea’s Ex-President Yoon misses insurrection trial

Seoul

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol skipped his insurrection trial for the first time on Thursday after being arrested just hours earlier over his failed attempt to impose martial law.

Yoon’s lawyers submitted a written explanation for his absence to the Seoul Central District Court, citing health reasons. The court confirmed this at the start of the trial’s 10th hearing.

Yoon is now held at the Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang, south of Seoul. Early Thursday, the court issued a warrant for his arrest on charges linked to his martial law attempt, including holding an illegal meeting with only a few Cabinet members before announcing martial law on December 3.

This marks Yoon’s second arrest. He was first arrested in January but was released in March after successfully challenging the warrant.

During Thursday’s hearing, his lawyers questioned whether it was fair to summon him to court less than eight hours after his arrest. Meanwhile, the special counsel team, led by prosecutor Cho Eun-suk, argued that Yoon’s absence was unjustified and requested that he be forcibly brought to court if he refuses to attend future hearings.

Two former military officials testified about the martial law plan during the session. Yoon faces charges of leading an insurrection and abusing his power. If found guilty, he could receive a life sentence or even the death penalty.

Assistant special counsel Park Ji-young stated they plan to question Yoon on Friday. His arrest warrant was carried out around 3 a.m., and his wife, former first lady Kim Keon Hee, was informed by mail. The trial continues to draw national and global attention due to its serious implications.