Why is Former South Korean President Yoon Absent from His 2nd Martial Law Trial?
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Synopsis
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's continued absence from his martial law trial raises questions about his legal strategy and the implications for his political future. With significant charges against him, the courtroom drama unfolds as key testimonies are awaited.
Key Takeaways
- Yoon Suk Yeol has missed his martial law trial for three consecutive sessions.
- The trial addresses serious allegations including insurrection and abuse of power.
- Two former officials are set to testify regarding their roles in his cases.
- Yoon's absence raises questions about his legal strategy.
- Continued developments may impact South Korea's political landscape.
Seoul, Oct 21 (NationPress) Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was absent from his second trial concerning martial law-related allegations for the third consecutive session on Tuesday. The proceedings at the Seoul Central District Court continued without him, as the court noted that circumstances had remained unchanged since the last session, which he also missed due to the detention center's assessment that forcibly bringing him in was not feasible.
This second trial addresses accusations that the former president infringed upon the rights of Cabinet members while declaring martial law in December, subsequently revised the martial law proclamation, and hindered his detention by investigators in January.
During Tuesday's hearing, two former officials from the Presidential Security Service are expected to testify. These individuals are believed to have played a role in obstructing Yoon's detention in January.
Since his second arrest in July, Yoon has largely disregarded his trials and the summonses issued by special counsels investigating various allegations against him and his wife, Kim Keon Hee, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
On Monday, he marked his 15th consecutive absence from the trial concerning charges of attempting to lead an insurrection through the martial law declaration.
The bench at the Seoul Central District Court continued with the trial without his presence, indicating that there had been no alterations to his voluntary nonattendance and the detention center's incapacity to bring him in by force.
Yoon has not participated in his trial since his second arrest in July, facing charges of insurrection and power abuse related to his failed attempt to impose martial law in December.
However, the former president did attend the initial hearing of this second trial on martial law-related charges in September and appeared at a hearing concerning his bail request.
Monday's session was set to hear from Col. Kim Hyun-tae, the former head of the Army Special Warfare Command's 707th Special Mission Group, who alleged he was instructed to seal off and secure the National Assembly following Yoon's martial law declaration on December 3.
Point of View
We recognize the significance of Yoon's absence from his trial. This situation not only highlights the complexities within South Korea's political landscape but also raises pressing questions about accountability and governance. As developments unfold, it is crucial to maintain an unbiased perspective and understand the broader implications for democracy and justice in the nation.
NationPress
21/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has Yoon Suk Yeol not attended his trial?
Yoon has been absent from his trial due to the detention center's declaration that it is impossible to bring him in by force, alongside his voluntary nonattendance.
What are the charges against Yoon Suk Yeol?
Yoon faces charges of violating the rights of Cabinet members during the martial law declaration, obstructing his detention, and leading an insurrection.
Who are the witnesses in the trial?
Two former officials from the Presidential Security Service are expected to testify regarding their involvement in hindering Yoon's detention.
When was Yoon Suk Yeol arrested?
Yoon was arrested for the second time in July and has largely ignored subsequent trial dates.
What happened during the previous hearings?
Yoon attended the first hearing of this second trial in September and a bail request hearing but has been absent for the following sessions.
