First Sitting President to Face Arrest
South Korea’s Constitutional Court has commenced impeachment proceedings against suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol. The trial follows a shocking attempt by Yoon to impose martial law in December, which led to his impeachment by parliament. Yoon, the first sitting South Korean president to face arrest, did not attend the trial, citing safety concerns due to an outstanding arrest warrant on charges of insurrection.
Court Proceedings Stalled by Yoon’s Absence
The opening hearing, held on Tuesday, lasted just four minutes. Yoon’s legal team has stated he will appear at a more “appropriate time” and has criticized the court’s unilateral scheduling. Under South Korean law, the Constitutional Court must reschedule a hearing if the accused does not attend. The court has set the next session for Thursday and rejected a request from Yoon’s lawyers to recuse one of the eight justices presiding over the case.
Martial Law Attempt Sparks Political Crisis
Yoon’s declaration of martial law on December 3, which he justified as necessary to combat “anti-state” threats, plunged the nation into political upheaval. Critics argue that the move was an attempt to consolidate power amid growing opposition. Parliament swiftly voted to impeach Yoon, transferring presidential duties temporarily to then-Prime Minister Han Duck-soo.
Economic Repercussions of Political Turmoil
The ongoing crisis has weighed heavily on South Korea’s economy. The national currency, the won, has weakened, and global credit rating agencies have issued warnings about declining consumer and business confidence. These developments add to the uncertainty surrounding Yoon’s trial and the broader stability of the nation’s governance.
Legal Challenges and Public Sentiment
Yoon’s absence from the impeachment trial mirrors past cases involving former Presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Park Geun-hye, who also did not attend their hearings. Roh was reinstated after a two-month review, while Park’s impeachment was upheld, resulting in her removal. Public opinion remains divided, with some calling for Yoon’s prosecution and others decrying the political chaos as damaging to the country’s reputation.
Next Steps in the Impeachment Process
For Yoon to be formally removed from office, at least six of the eight Constitutional Court justices must uphold the impeachment. Meanwhile, investigators are preparing a renewed attempt to arrest him following a failed effort earlier this month. As the trial progresses, South Korea braces for its next chapter in this unprecedented political saga.
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