South Korea's impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared at the Constitutional Court for the first time on Tuesday, January 21st. He vowed to cooperate with the judges who will decide whether to remove him from office.
The country was plunged into political chaos by Yoon's December 3rd martial law declaration, which lasted just six hours before lawmakers voted it down. They later impeached him, stripping him of his duties. He also became the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested in a criminal probe on insurrection grounds.
Thousands of protesters, both for and against Yoon, flocked to the Constitutional Court, which is holding hearings to decide whether to uphold his impeachment.
"I will respond to any questions or provide further remarks if necessary," Yoon told the judge.
Yoon was asked whether he had instructed top military commanders to "drag out" lawmakers from parliament to prevent them voting down his martial law decree.
"No," he told the judge.
10 Comments
BuggaBoom
Yoon’s actions showed blatant disrespect for the democratic process. He must go!
Eugene Alta
Let’s not forget why we’re here—Yoon’s authoritarian tactics have no place in South Korea.
Noir Black
Yoon is the embodiment of how NOT to lead a country. His martial law declaration was outrageous!
BuggaBoom
When will we realize that Yoon’s lies aren't just political blunders—they're detrimental to our democracy?
Eugene Alta
True patriots should support Yoon in these trying times. Dismissing him is not the solution!
Leonardo
The protests for Yoon are baffling—what exactly are they supporting? His attempts to control the country?
Raphael
Martial law was a necessary step at that moment. He was trying to protect the country!
Michelangelo
He should be answering for his actions, not playing the victim in a court room!
Stan Marsh
His cooperation with the court is just a façade. He's only looking to save his own skin at this point.
Donatello
He was put in a tough position, and I believe he made the right call under the circumstances.