South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court on Thursday for the first hearing of his criminal trial on insurrection charges, becoming the country’s first sitting leader to face prosecution. His lawyers challenged his arrest and argued for his release from detention. Heightened security surrounded the Seoul Central District Court, with police buses stationed outside as supporters gathered nearby.
Yoon, 64, has been in custody since his arrest last month over allegations that he attempted to set up by briefly imposing martial law in December. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment or the death penalty. TV footage showed justice ministry vehicles transporting him from the Seoul Detention Centre to the courthouse, where the proceedings focused on witness selection and trial preparations.
The courtroom was packed as criminal proceedings began at 10 a.m. (0100 GMT) at Seoul Central District Court, with heightened security around the premises. A supporter of the ousted president, dressed as Captain America, was spotted outside the security perimeter. Prosecutors accused Yoon of leading an insurrection, while his lawyers argued that the investigation was flawed from the outset and challenged the legality of his indictment.
Yoon’s legal team insisted that he had the authority to declare martial law as head of state and described the trial as a “significant event in constitutional history.” His lawyer, Kim Hong-il, urged the judiciary to act as a “stabilizing force” and ensure the defendant’s rights were not violated. Prosecutors, however, called for swift proceedings due to the seriousness of the charges.
The court also reviewed Yoon’s lawyers’ request to cancel his detention, arguing that the investigation was conducted improperly and that there was no risk of him tampering with evidence. A judge scheduled the next hearing for March 24. Meanwhile, South Korea’s Constitutional Court continues its impeachment trial, with Yoon’s fate hanging in the balance.
On Thursday, several witnesses testified at the impeachment trial, including Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who was also impeached after Yoon’s removal. Han acknowledged the ongoing political instability and emphasized the need for a fair trial. Former senior intelligence officer Hong Jang-won and National Police Agency chief Cho Ji-ho, who is also facing insurrection charges, were among those who appeared as witnesses.
The Constitutional Court’s final hearing is set for February 25, where Yoon and the National Assembly will present their closing arguments. If convicted in the criminal trial, Yoon could face life imprisonment or even the death penalty. Though lifted within hours, the martial law declaration triggered significant unrest and deepened political divisions in the country.
The Constitutional Court is reviewing Yoon’s impeachment and is expected to issue a ruling by March. South Korea must hold a new presidential election within 60 days if the court upholds his removal. Yoon has defended his brief martial law decree as a warning to break the political deadlock, not a full-scale takeover. However, his decision has fueled months of political unrest, including protests, disinformation campaigns, and two impeachment votes.
Yoon’s legal troubles extend beyond impeachment, as he and several top officials face serious criminal charges. His defense minister, national police chief, and multiple military commanders have been arrested and charged with rebellion and abuse of power for deploying heavily armed troops to key government sites. While South Korean presidents usually have immunity from prosecution, exceptions exist for crimes like treason, meaning Yoon could face life imprisonment or even the death penalty if convicted.
