Why Has South Korea's Former President Yoon Been Absent from His Insurrection Trial for 11 Sessions?
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Synopsis
In a striking development, former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has skipped his insurrection trial for the eleventh time, raising eyebrows and questions about his legal strategy. With a crucial hearing on the horizon, the unfolding events promise to keep the nation on edge.
Key Takeaways
- Yoon Suk Yeol has missed his trial for the 11th consecutive session.
- He is facing serious allegations of insurrection and abuse of power.
- The Seoul Central District Court is proceeding without him due to his refusal to attend.
- Former first lady Kim Keon Hee is being investigated for bribery allegations.
- The upcoming hearings are crucial for both Yoon and Kim's legal futures.
Seoul, Sep 25 (NationPress) The former President of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, missed his insurrection trial for the 11th consecutive session on Thursday. However, he is anticipated to attend a different court hearing later this week.
Yoon has been undergoing trial at the Seoul Central District Court, facing allegations of leading an insurrection and misusing his authority through a brief assertion of martial law in December.
Since his second custody placement on July 10, linked to the martial law attempt, Yoon has consistently declined to attend the trial, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.
The court indicated that proceedings would continue without his presence, as the Seoul Detention Center had again communicated that forcibly bringing him in was unfeasible.
According to the Criminal Procedure Code, if a defendant abstains from attending their trial without valid reasons, the trial may proceed in their absence if it is exceedingly difficult for prison officers to transport them.
In other news, Yoon is set to make his first appearance regarding separate allegations of infringing upon the rights of Cabinet members and modifying a proclamation post-martial law on Friday.
Yoon's legal representatives stated that under the law, criminal defendants are obligated to be present for the opening session of their trials.
The Seoul Central District Court will also consider Yoon's bail request immediately after the hearing on the fresh allegations. Yoon sought bail last week, citing his right to self-defense and health concerns.
Meanwhile, former first lady Kim Keon Hee appeared before a special counsel team on Thursday to answer questions regarding claims that she received an expensive painting in exchange for her assistance with a former prosecutor's parliamentary campaign.
Kim, who has been in custody since August 12, arrived at the special counsel's office in a prison van, marking her first appearance for questioning since her indictment on separate bribery and corruption charges on August 29.
The special counsel team is expanding its investigation into the former first lady, wife of ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol, following her indictment.
On Thursday, she is expected to be interrogated about allegations of receiving a 140 million-won (approximately US$101,000) painting from renowned artist Lee Ufan from former prosecutor Kim Sang-min in return for aiding his bid to secure the then-ruling People Power Party's nomination for a parliamentary seat in Changwon's Uichang district for the upcoming April 2024 general elections.
Point of View
Our commitment remains with the principles of transparency and public interest. The repeated absence of Yoon Suk Yeol from his trial raises serious questions about accountability in leadership and the rule of law in South Korea. The unfolding legal battles of high-profile figures like Yoon are crucial in shaping the nation's political landscape.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Yoon Suk Yeol absent from his trial?
Yoon Suk Yeol has been absent from his trial due to being in custody since July 10, linked to allegations of leading an insurrection and misusing his authority during a martial law declaration.
What are the charges against Yoon Suk Yeol?
He faces charges of leading an insurrection and abusing his power during a brief declaration of martial law in December.
When is Yoon's next court appearance?
Yoon is expected to appear for a hearing on new charges related to violating Cabinet members' rights later this week.
What is the significance of his trial?
The trial signifies the importance of accountability and the rule of law, especially for high-ranking officials in South Korea.
What is the status of former first lady Kim Keon Hee?
Former first lady Kim Keon Hee is under investigation for allegations related to bribery and corruption and recently appeared for questioning.
