Yoon Suk Yeol Denies Insurrection Charges During Criminal Trial

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court on April 14 for the opening of his criminal trial, where he denied charges of insurrection related to his declaration of martial law on December 3, 2023. Yoon argued that the brief and non-violent nature of the event, coupled with the immediate acceptance of the National Assembly's request to lift the martial law, renders the allegations legally unfounded. The prosecution claims Yoon intended to incite an uprising to undermine constitutional order, presenting evidence of his prior planning and military orders to enforce the martial law. Witness testimonies, including military officers, supported the prosecution's case. Yoon's impeachment followed the martial law declaration, and he faces severe penalties if convicted, including life imprisonment or the death penalty. The trial continues as Yoon’s defense counters the prosecution's claims point by point.