Seoul: South Korea's suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol will not attend the first hearing of his impeachment trial next week, citing safety concerns, according to his lawyer. Yoon, who has been in isolation since his impeachment and suspension last month, continues to be guarded by an elite security unit.
The Constitutional Court has scheduled five trial sessions from January 14 to February 4, and the trial will proceed without Yoon if he does not attend. His lawyer, Yoon Kab-keun, explained that "Concerns about safety and potential incidents have arisen. Therefore, the President will not be able to attend the trial on January 14." He added that Yoon is open to attending the trial once safety issues are addressed.
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Yoon faces insurrection charges amid growing tensions
Yoon has been under heavy protection since his suspension following a failed martial law declaration that threw South Korea into political turmoil. His security detail thwarted an attempt to arrest him earlier this month. Investigators are preparing for another arrest attempt related to charges of insurrection tied to the martial law declaration, with police and a special investigative team on high alert.
If arrested, Yoon would become the first sitting South Korean president to face detention. If convicted, he could face prison time or even the death penalty.
Rising tensions, protests in Seoul
Protests for and against Yoon have taken place almost daily in Seoul since the political crisis began. Despite the turmoil, recent polls show that Yoon’s ruling party, the People Power Party, has seen a surge in approval ratings, rising from 24% to 34% in just three weeks, according to a Gallup survey.
As the crisis continues, the investigation and impeachment process remain key points of focus in South Korean politics.
Agency
Published: 12 Jan 2025, 09:10 am IST
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