Yoon Suk Yeol's Martial Law Attempt Sparks Insurrection Trial

Ousted South Korean leader Yoon Suk Yeol is facing trial for insurrection, becoming the first sitting president in the country to do so. His lawyer argued that Yoon's attempt to impose martial law was to counter a 'legislative dictatorship' by the opposition-controlled parliament. Yoon could face life imprisonment or the death penalty as prosecutors labeled him the 'ringleader of an insurrection.' Despite heavy security during the court proceedings, Yoon did not speak, while his lawyer condemned the investigation as illegal and lacking jurisdiction. The controversy stems from Yoon's brief martial law declaration, which lasted only six hours before being overridden by parliament. Additionally, the Constitutional Court is considering whether to formally remove Yoon from office following his impeachment in December 2023.