South Korea's Yoon to Skip Impeachment Trial

South Korea's suspended President Yoon Suk-yeol will not attend the opening of his impeachment trial, citing security concerns, his legal team confirmed on Sunday.

The Constitutional Court is set to begin the impeachment proceedings on Tuesday, with five trial dates scheduled between January 14 and February 4.

Yoon’s legal representatives stated that the president’s safety was a primary concern, particularly after his suspension and the subsequent impeachment vote triggered by his brief and controversial declaration of martial law.

Despite his isolation within the presidential residence under heavy protection, Yoon's team emphasized that he would attend the trial once security issues are resolved.

Protests have intensified outside Yoon's residence and in Seoul, with rival factions demanding either the invalidation of his impeachment or his immediate detention.

The trial will proceed in his absence unless he attends, and the Constitutional Court will ultimately decide whether to uphold the impeachment or restore him to office.

Additionally, Yoon is under investigation for insurrection charges related to his failed martial law declaration, with authorities reportedly preparing another arrest attempt. Should he be convicted, Yoon faces potential prison time or even the death penalty.