South Korea's Political Struggle: Yoon Suk Yeol's Impeachment Hearing Begins

As South Korea grapples with political turmoil, President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment trial began with his absence from the proceedings, diving the nation deeper into uncertainty.

Judges from South Korea’s Constitutional Court convened on Tuesday to deliberate the validity of President Yoon Suk Yeol's ongoing impeachment. Yoon, who is currently facing charges of insurrection due to his controversial imposition of martial law, remained isolated in his fortified presidential residence. His aides described the situation as a “siege attack” with as many as 1,000 investigators preparing to detain him.

Impeached since December 14, Mr. Yoon has vehemently rejected calls for his resignation, pledging to “fight to the end” in an attempt to reclaim his position through legal proceedings. Furthermore, he has resisted any attempts for questioning in the insurrection investigation, causing panic within the political sphere and raising questions about the stability of South Korea’s established democracy.

The Constitutional Court holds monumental power as it assesses whether Mr. Yoon's impeachment by the National Assembly is legitimate and will determine his fate regarding reinstatement or formal removal from office. Outside the court, rival factions of citizens could be seen engaged in passionate debates, creating a scene filled with tension as supporters of the impeached president lined the court's perimeter with flowers and wreaths.

While the court said it would resume deliberations on Thursday, Mr. Yoon’s absence during the opening session was significant. His legal team expressed concerns that he risked arrest if he stepped outside his compound, leading the court to adjourn just minutes into the proceedings. The outcome of this case remains pivotal not only for the future of Yoon Suk Yeol but also for the very fabric of South Korean politics and governance.