Yoon Suk Yeol Denies Allegations of Military Crackdown During Impeachment Trial

Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol made his first appearance before the Constitutional Court, where he denied allegations of ordering military action against lawmakers during his controversial declaration of martial law on December 3. Yoon defended his actions as a necessary warning to the opposition rather than an attempt to obstruct the National Assembly's functions. His lawyers argued that the martial law decree was merely a formality and had no intent to be enforced, dismissing claims of ordering arrests as 'blatant fake news.' During the hearing, Yoon emphasized his commitment to liberal democracy and requested a thorough examination of the case. The Constitutional Court is expected to rule by June on whether to permanently remove him from office, following his impeachment by the National Assembly. Tensions remain high, with protests from Yoon's supporters leading to clashes with police during his court appearance.