Former President Yoon Suk Yeol missed his South Korea insurrection trial for the 13th consecutive session. The court continued the hearing despite his absence, citing a law that allows proceedings when a jailed defendant cannot appear. Furthermore, the bench emphasized public interest in following the South Korea insurrection trial and maintaining accountability.
For the first time, the court broadcast part of the South Korea insurrection trial online. The special counsel requested the limited broadcast, and the court considered both the seriousness of the case and the people’s right to know. Additionally, the court restricted the live coverage to the start of witness questioning to protect witness privacy and portrait rights. Officials also noted that broadcasting could influence other witnesses if extended further.
Yoon faces charges of leading an insurrection and abusing power through his brief imposition of martial law in December. He has not attended the trial since his arrest. The special counsel team urged the court to take firm measures, including issuing a warrant to bring Yoon by force. They argued that he appeared at the first hearing of a related martial law trial, highlighting inconsistencies in attendance.
Yoon’s legal team explained that his absence stems partly from health concerns. They also raised issues regarding constitutional irregularities in the trial. Meanwhile, prosecutors stressed that continuing the South Korea insurrection trial ensures accountability and reinforces the legal system. Furthermore, officials stated that all procedural safeguards remain in place to protect the defendant’s rights.
Observers noted that this South Korea insurrection trial represents one of the most high-profile political cases in recent history. Legal analysts explained that repeated absences complicate proceedings but do not stop them. Moreover, broadcasting parts of the trial allows the public to remain informed while balancing witness protection. The trial illustrates tensions between transparency, constitutional rights, and accountability for former leaders.
Authorities will continue to monitor the trial closely, ensuring that legal processes proceed without disruption. Both the court and the special counsel remain committed to completing the trial fairly. As a result, this trial demonstrates the resilience of the judicial system in handling sensitive political cases. Witness questioning and further procedural actions will continue.
