Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Faces Criminal Trial Over Insurrection Charges

South Korea's Impeached President Faces Criminal Trial

South Korea's impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court on Thursday for the first hearing of his criminal trial over insurrection charges. His lawyers demanded his release from jail, arguing that the investigation was conducted illegally and there was no risk of him destroying evidence.

Yoon was indicted last month for allegedly leading an insurrection by imposing martial law on December 3rd. This unprecedented move shocked the country and sought to ban political and parliamentary activity, as well as control the media. The charges carry the potential for years in prison.

Prosecutors called for a swift trial due to the case's seriousness, but Yoon's lawyers requested more time to review records. They argued that Yoon had no intention of paralyzing the country and that his martial law declaration was meant to highlight the "legislative dictatorship" of the opposition party.

The next hearing in the criminal case is scheduled for March 24th. Meanwhile, Yoon also faces a parallel impeachment trial in the Constitutional Court, which has entered its final phase. The court will hear witness testimonies, including from Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, and decide whether to permanently remove Yoon from office or reinstate him.

Yoon and his lawyers maintain that he never intended to fully impose martial law and that the measures were meant as a warning to break a political deadlock. If Yoon is removed from office, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days.