504 Media - The first impeachment hearing for South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol on January 14 ended quickly due to his absence. According to Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae, the next hearing is scheduled for 2:00 PM on January 16, regardless of President Yoon’s attendance.
The hearing was held one month after the National Assembly voted to impeach President Yoon over the imposition of martial law on December 3, 2024. President Yoon did not attend due to personal safety concerns as he faces allegations of rebellion and abuse of power. The court rejected his request to disqualify a judge and his objection to the allocated trial period, stating that all decisions were made in accordance with the law.
The Constitutional Court has 180 days to decide whether to remove or reinstate President Yoon. If found guilty, a new presidential election will be held within 60 days. Otherwise, President Yoon will be reinstated.
