21-1-2025 (SEOUL) Imprisoned President Yoon Suk Yeol is set to make a dramatic appearance at his impeachment trial before the Constitutional Court today, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s political crisis.
The embattled leader, currently held at Seoul Detention Centre, faces serious allegations stemming from his controversial attempt to declare martial law in early December—a move that sent shockwaves through the democratic nation before being swiftly overturned by parliament.
Legal representatives for Yoon have confirmed his intention to attend today’s proceedings, where he may have his first opportunity to directly address the charges against him. Solicitor Seok Dong-hyeon, a key member of Yoon’s defence team, indicated they would facilitate the president’s participation in making “necessary statements” before the court.
The Constitutional Court’s proceedings, scheduled for 2 p.m. local time, will determine whether Yoon shall be permanently removed from office or reinstated to his position. The impeachment motion, passed with a decisive two-thirds majority on 14 December, garnered support not only from the opposition Democratic Party but also drew backing from 12 members of Yoon’s own People Power Party.
Yoon’s decision to appear at the impeachment hearing stands in stark contrast to his approach to parallel criminal investigations, where he has steadfastly refused to cooperate with investigators. The president faces separate criminal charges related to allegedly leading an insurrection—an offence that carries potential penalties as severe as life imprisonment or, theoretically, capital punishment.
His legal team has vehemently rejected accusations of masterminding an insurrection, characterising the impeachment as a politically motivated assault by opposition parties wielding their parliamentary majority. During initial oral arguments, Yoon’s lawyers maintained that the proceedings had no bearing on protecting constitutional order.
Authorities have significantly bolstered security measures around the Constitutional Court in central Seoul, following recent unrest where Yoon’s supporters violently protested at a district court that extended his detention. Police have established a formidable presence, with dozens of vehicles positioned along the streets surrounding the courthouse to control access to the premises.
The president is expected to be transported from detention under heavy security, accompanied by a Presidential Security Service escort—a reminder of the extraordinary circumstances surrounding a sitting head of state facing both imprisonment and potential removal from office.
