The impeachment trial of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol commenced on Tuesday at the Constitutional Court, following his failed attempt to impose martial law.
The trial, which marks a significant moment in the nation’s political turmoil, was quickly adjourned after Yoon, who is currently suspended, failed to attend the session.
His legal team cited safety concerns for his absence, though the trial is set to proceed without him.
Yoon’s controversial actions on December 3 sparked a national crisis when he ordered soldiers to storm parliament in an attempt to prevent lawmakers from voting down his suspension of civilian rule.
The failed power grab resulted in his impeachment, and he has since remained in hiding, refusing to comply with summonses from investigators probing insurrection charges.
The Constitutional Court’s eight judges are tasked with determining whether Yoon’s martial law declaration was unconstitutional and illegal.
A majority of six judges must vote in favor of impeachment for Yoon to be removed from office.
In addition to the impeachment trial, investigators are preparing for a second attempt to arrest Yoon over insurrection charges.
The first attempt was blocked by his presidential security, and a large number of police officers are now being mobilized for the next effort.
If Yoon is arrested and convicted, he could face prison time or even the death penalty.
The outcome of both the impeachment trial and the arrest attempt will have significant implications for South Korea’s political future, with experts warning of potential social unrest if the situation remains unresolved.
