Did Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Deny All Charges at His New Martial Law Trial?
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Synopsis
In a tense courtroom scene, former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol faced charges related to martial law and vehemently denied all allegations during his first public hearing since his arrest. The proceedings are set to unfold weekly as Yoon's legal team challenges the accusations amidst claims of political bias.
Key Takeaways
- Yoon Suk Yeol denies all charges against him.
- He faces allegations of insurrection and political misconduct.
- The trial is broadcasted online for public viewing.
- Hearings are scheduled to take place weekly.
- The case raises important questions about governance in South Korea.
Seoul, Sep 26 (NationPress) Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol categorically rejected all allegations during his second trial related to martial law on Friday. This marked his first public appearance since his arrest in July. The former president was transported from the Seoul Detention Centre to the Seoul Central District Court for the initial hearing, which commenced at 10:15 a.m. and is set to be streamed online after anonymizing personal details.
Wearing a dark navy suit and appearing noticeably thinner, he entered the courtroom with his inmate number, “3617,” displayed prominently on his chest.
As he stood in the dock, he confirmed his identity by providing his birthday and address before opting against a jury trial.
Yoon is already facing charges for allegedly leading an insurrection through his unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law last December. Additionally, he is charged with infringing on the rights of his Cabinet, revising the martial law proclamation, and hindering investigators during his detention in January.
He is also accused of orchestrating the deletion of call records and disseminating false information, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
During the hearing, Yoon’s legal team systematically challenged the accusations, asserting that the former president had declared martial law during an emergency and rescinded it following a vote by the National Assembly to annul it.
The Special Counsel, Cho Eun-suk, and his team asserted that the charges against Yoon were driven by political motives rather than legal grounds.
Yoon defended himself against claims of a false proclamation, which investigators believe was created after the decree was revoked to bolster the legitimacy of his actions but ultimately discarded.
“I reprimanded (former presidential secretary Kang Eui-gu), but he insisted on keeping it,” Yoon stated, referring to the document's drafting.
The last time Yoon was seen publicly was on July 9, during an arrest warrant hearing. Following the issuance of the warrant, he was imprisoned for a second time and has since refused to attend his insurrection trial or respond to summons from special counsel teams investigating his case.
His attorneys previously indicated that his attendance at Friday's hearing was mandated by law as a prerequisite for initiating the new trial.
The Special Counsel requested expedited proceedings. In response, the judges announced plans to hold hearings at least once a week, primarily on Fridays, and potentially on Tuesdays if two hearings occur in a week.
This hearing is expected to be followed by a session regarding Yoon's bail request.
Yoon intended to participate in that hearing as well, although it will not be broadcast.
In accordance with applicable law, the court intends to outline its rationale for denying the broadcast during the session.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain impartial while covering the ongoing legal challenges faced by former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The unfolding trial not only impacts Yoon's future but also echoes broader implications for South Korean politics and governance, highlighting ongoing tensions between leadership and accountability.
NationPress
26/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges does Yoon Suk Yeol face?
Yoon Suk Yeol is facing charges related to martial law, including leading an insurrection, violating Cabinet members' rights, and deleting call records.
When was Yoon's last public appearance?
Yoon's last public appearance was on July 9 during an arrest warrant hearing.
How often will the trial hearings occur?
The trial hearings are scheduled to occur at least once a week, primarily on Fridays, with additional sessions on Tuesdays if necessary.
Is the trial being broadcasted?
Yes, the trial is being broadcasted online after anonymizing personal information.
What is the significance of this trial?
This trial is significant as it addresses serious allegations against a former president and raises questions about political accountability in South Korea.
