South Korea’s Yoon Makes History as First Sitting President to Face Criminal Trial
South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court Thursday for the first hearing of his criminal trial on charges of leading an insurrection. The preliminary session at the Seoul Central District Court focused on clarifying key disputes and planning future proceedings.
Although his presence was not mandatory, Yoon chose to attend. His legal team stated they would present their defense at a later date, citing the need for more time to review case records. Meanwhile, the court is also considering his request for release from detention.
Hundreds of Yoon’s supporters gathered near the courthouse, demanding his freedom, prompting authorities to deploy 3,200 police officers and set up barricades to maintain order. Yoon has been in custody since mid-January following his arrest on insurrection charges linked to a failed martial law attempt.
His impeachment case, pending before the Constitutional Court since December 14, remains unresolved. The court has six months to either confirm his removal or reinstate him.
As the impeachment trial nears its conclusion, Yoon’s legal troubles deepen. He was formally indicted last month, further complicating his political future. The outcome of both the impeachment proceedings and his criminal trial could determine South Korea’s political landscape in the coming months.
