South Korea’s impeached former president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has denied charges of insurrection as his criminal trial opened.

The criminal trial of Yoon Suk Yeol, South Korea's former president who was ousted from office, commenced with the ex-leader denying accusations of insurrection linked to his controversial martial law declaration in December 2024. This trial is particularly significant not only for Yoon but also for the South Korean political landscape, as he becomes the fifth former president to face legal repercussions following their terms. The nature of the charges against Yoon is severe—should he be found guilty, he potentially faces life in prison or even execution, though the latter is highly unlikely given South Korea's moratorium on the death penalty since 1997. Yoon's defense hinges on his assertion that his actions were aimed at correcting what he viewed as a governmental stalemate exacerbated by opposition movements. His use of martial law was characterized as a necessary measure to ensure national stability; however, the prosecution contends that his actions effectively incapacitated constitutional functions of government, particularly the legislature. As the trial progresses, it is set to unfold amidst a backdrop of deep public scrutiny and political maneuvering, positing questions about appropriate use of executive power and accountability in government. The court's decision to allow Yoon to enter via underground routes has attracted significant criticism, sparking accusations of preferential treatment, raising concerns about the perceived equality of justice in South Korea’s legal system. Critics argue that such actions serve to underscore a troubling inconsistency in the way high-profile political figures are treated compared to ordinary citizens. Admittedly, the ruling has been justified on security grounds. Still, as Rep. Lee Geon-tae highlighted, this decision seemingly disregards the intense public interest in Yoon’s trial and might foster greater distrust in judicial processes. Overall, Yoon's trial will serve as a litmus test for South Korea's commitment to the rule of law and democratic principles following substantial political upheaval.