What's Next for South Korea's Ex-President Yoon as He Misses His 14th Insurrection Trial Session?
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Synopsis
In a gripping turn of events, former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has failed to attend his insurrection trial for the 14th time. As the courts proceed without him, health issues and ongoing investigations weigh heavily on his future. Will he face justice or evade accountability?
Key Takeaways
- Former President Yoon Suk Yeol has missed his trial for the 14th time.
- The Seoul Central District Court will continue proceedings in his absence.
- Health issues and investigations may be impacting Yoon's participation.
- Yoon faces serious charges related to his past imposition of martial law.
- Special counsel plans to question Yoon regarding a military probe.
Seoul, Oct 13 (NationPress) Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was notably absent from his insurrection trial for the 14th consecutive session on Monday. The judges at the Seoul Central District Court announced that they would continue with the proceedings without his presence, as the detention facility where Yoon is held reported challenges in transporting him.
However, the court cautioned that any consequences of his absence would fall on the defendant, and it would be advantageous if he could be persuaded to present his case in person.
Yoon's legal representatives sought the judge's compassion, asserting that the former president has been struggling with health issues and various ongoing investigations against him.
He faces charges of orchestrating an insurrection and misusing his authority during his brief imposition of martial law in December, according to reports from the Yonhap news agency.
Since being re-arrested in July, Yoon has not participated in the trial sessions.
Additionally, a separate trial concerning different charges related to the martial law initiative began last month, where Yoon made an obligatory appearance at the initial hearing.
Earlier today, the special counsel team announced plans to summon former President Yoon Suk Yeol for questioning next week regarding his alleged interference in a military investigation surrounding the 2023 death of a young Marine.
The team, led by special counsel Lee Myeong-hyeon, intends to issue a summons later today, requesting his presence at 10 a.m. on October 23, as stated by assistant special counsel Choung Min-young.
"It is crucial to interrogate former President Yoon, and we anticipate he will voluntarily come forward for questioning," Choung remarked during a press briefing.
Lee's team has been active for nearly four months, tasked with investigating claims that the Yoon administration altered the initial conclusions of a military inquiry into the death of Cpl. Chae Su-geun to exonerate a Marine commander.
This will mark the first instance that the team interrogates Yoon, who reportedly reacted with anger during a briefing about the preliminary findings.
The former president was detained again in July due to charges linked to his unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law in December.
Since then, he has declined to cooperate with inquiries or attend his trials related to martial law.
The Marine tragically passed away in July 2023 during a search operation for victims of a torrential rain disaster.
Point of View
I believe it's essential to maintain a balanced viewpoint in this unfolding situation. While Yoon Suk Yeol's absence raises questions about his accountability and the judicial process, we must also consider his reported health challenges and the broader political landscape that could influence the outcomes of these trials.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is former President Yoon absent from his trial?
Former President Yoon Suk Yeol has been absent due to reported health issues and difficulties reported by the detention center in transporting him.
What charges does Yoon face?
Yoon is facing charges related to leading an insurrection and abusing his power during his attempt to impose martial law in December.
When is Yoon expected to appear for questioning?
Yoon is expected to appear for questioning on October 23, as per the summons from the special counsel team.
What was the outcome of the military probe into the Marine's death?
The special counsel is investigating allegations that the Yoon administration altered findings in the military probe into the death of Cpl. Chae Su-geun.
What happened to the Marine who died in July 2023?
The Marine tragically died during a search operation for victims of torrential rain.
