Yoon Faces Impeachment, Criminal Trials Over Martial Law

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is facing both criminal and impeachment trials following his brief imposition of martial law in December, declared to counter perceived threats from North Korea and domestic opposition. The Constitutional Court has scheduled the final hearing for Yoon's impeachment trial for next Tuesday, with a decision expected by mid-March on whether to remove him from office. Meanwhile, Yoon appeared in court for his criminal trial on rebellion charges, which could result in life imprisonment or death, though executions have not been carried out in South Korea for decades. Yoon's legal team argues the martial law was a legitimate response to a national crisis, while prosecutors and the parliament claim it was an unlawful power grab. The impeachment and criminal proceedings have sparked heightened security and political tensions across the country, with ongoing debates over constitutional authority and presidential powers. If Yoon is permanently removed, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days.