Why is Ex-President Yoon Missing from His Insurrection Trial for the 13th Time?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On October 2, 2023, former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was absent from his insurrection trial for the 13th consecutive session, the first to be streamed online. With critical charges against him, this ongoing situation raises significant questions about justice and transparency in South Korea.
Key Takeaways
- Yoon Suk Yeol has missed multiple trial sessions amid serious charges.
- The trial is significant as it is the first to be broadcast online.
- Concerns over evidence destruction have influenced court decisions.
- Yoon's legal team cites health issues affecting his attendance.
- The special counsel emphasizes the importance of maintaining Yoon's detention.
Seoul, Oct 2 (NationPress) Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol missed his insurrection trial for the 13th consecutive session on Thursday, marking the first occasion the hearing was available for online broadcasting.
The judges at the Seoul Central District Court noted Yoon's ongoing absence and continued the proceedings based on a legal provision that permits the trial to proceed in the absence of a defendant who cannot be forcibly brought to court.
They provided justification for granting a request from special counsel Cho Eun-suk to allow the hearing to be streamed, emphasizing the case's significance and the public's right to be informed.
The court limited the broadcast to only the initial phase of witness questioning, citing the need to protect the witnesses' personal rights and to prevent potential influencing of testimonies.
Yoon has been facing charges related to leading an insurrection and misusing his authority during a brief attempt to impose martial law in December. He has not participated in the hearings since his arrest in July.
The special counsel requested the court consider issuing a warrant for his forcible appearance, highlighting that the former president attended the first session of a new trial concerning martial law-related charges last week, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
However, Yoon's legal team contended that his absence was partly due to health complications and alleged unconstitutional aspects of the trial.
Earlier, a Seoul court denied Yoon's bail application due to fears of evidence tampering.
The court's ruling followed Yoon's bail request from last month, citing his right to a fair defense and health concerns.
The court expressed worries about potential evidence destruction and found no compelling reason to grant bail.
Yoon has been incarcerated since July when special counsel Cho Eun-suk arrested him for a second time over his failed martial law attempt.
During his bail hearing last week, Yoon articulated for 18 minutes that his detention hampers his ability to engage in his trials and respond to investigators.
The special counsel maintained that Yoon's continued detention was essential, citing evidence tampering concerns and the political ramifications of his potential release on their investigations and trials.
Yoon is currently on trial for allegedly instigating an insurrection through his unsuccessful martial law initiative, as well as charges of infringing on the rights of Cabinet officials, modifying the martial law declaration, and obstructing his detention by investigators in January.
Point of View
It is imperative to maintain a neutral stance while reporting on the ongoing trial of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The absence of a high-profile figure like Yoon from his hearings raises concerns about transparency and accountability in the political landscape of South Korea. Observing the legal proceedings with due diligence is vital for upholding the integrity of our judicial system.
NationPress
24/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has Yoon Suk Yeol been absent from his trial?
Yoon Suk Yeol has been absent due to health issues and his ongoing incarceration since July, as well as claims of unconstitutional elements in the trial.
What are the charges against Yoon Suk Yeol?
He faces charges of leading an insurrection, abusing power during a martial law attempt, and violating the rights of Cabinet members.
Why was the trial broadcasted online?
The court allowed the online broadcast to ensure public awareness of the gravity of the case and to uphold the people's right to know.
What action did the special counsel team request?
They requested the court to issue a warrant for Yoon's forcible appearance, citing concerns about his absence affecting the trial's integrity.
What was the outcome of Yoon's bail request?
The Seoul court denied Yoon's bail request, expressing concerns over potential evidence destruction.
