Yoon Fails to Appear at Insurrection Trial for Fifth Time... Proceedings Continue in Absentia

Yoon’s Legal Team: “He Will Appear If His Health Recovers”

Former President Yoon Sukyeol has failed to appear at his insurrection trial for the fifth consecutive time. As a result, the court has decided to proceed with a trial in absentia for the second time, following the previous session.

Former President Yoon Sukyeol. Photo by Yonhap News

On August 18, the 25th Criminal Division of the Seoul Central District Court (Presiding Judge Ji Guyoun) held a hearing for former President Yoon on charges of leading an insurrection and abuse of power, stating, "Since (former President Yoon) has refused to appear, we will proceed with the trial in his absence."

A trial in absentia is conducted when the defendant does not appear in court. According to Article 277-2 of the Criminal Procedure Act, if a detained defendant refuses to appear without just cause, and it is impossible or significantly difficult for correctional officers to bring the defendant to court, the trial may proceed without the defendant’s presence.

On this day, when asked whether former President Yoon would continue to be absent from future hearings, his legal team responded, "He will appear if his health recovers." They did not answer questions regarding his current condition or whether he had any hospital appointments scheduled.

Since being re-detained on July 10, former President Yoon has missed all five subsequent hearings, citing health reasons. The court conducted the first three hearings by questioning witnesses outside of the official sessions. However, at the fourth hearing on August 11, the court stated, "Due to the defendant’s refusal to appear, we will proceed with the trial in absentia," adding, "The defendant must bear any disadvantages resulting from his absence."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.