Yoon Suk Yeol Impeachment Trial Begins in South Korea

The impeachment trial of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol commenced with its first hearing on Tuesday, but it was adjourned after just four minutes due to Yoon's absence, citing safety concerns amid ongoing investigations into allegations of insurrection and abuse of power related to his controversial martial law declaration on December 3. The Constitutional Court, led by Acting President Moon Hyung Bae, stated the trial would proceed regardless of Yoon's attendance, with the next hearing scheduled for Thursday. Yoon's legal team requested the exclusion of one justice, Chung Kye-sun, claiming her past affiliations could affect the trial's fairness, but this request was rejected by the court. If the court upholds the impeachment, Yoon will be removed from office and a snap election will follow; if dismissed, he will resume his presidency. Legal experts indicate that the court's decision will focus on the constitutionality of Yoon's martial law declaration and its implications. The court has until June 11 to reach a verdict.