South Korea's former Prez Yoon greeted by supporters, opponents ahead of court trial

IANS April 14, 2025 163 views

South Korea's former President Yoon Suk Yeol arrived at Seoul Central District Court amid a charged atmosphere of supporter and opponent demonstrations. His trial marks a significant moment in the country's political landscape, with Yoon facing criminal rebellion charges from his time in office. Approximately 20 supporters rallied with flags and chants of support, while opponents simultaneously called for his punishment. This trial represents a critical judicial moment, as Yoon becomes the fifth former South Korean president to face criminal proceedings.

"The president is not guilty" - Yoon Suk Yeol Supporter
Seoul, April 14: Supporters and opponents of South Korea's former President Yoon Suk Yeol on Monday gathered in front of the Seoul Central District Court in time for his arrival there to attend his first criminal trial related to his martial law declaration last year.

Key Points

1

Yoon becomes fifth former president to stand criminal trial

2

Supporters wave US and South Korean flags

3

Opponents demand stern punishment

4

Court implements security measures for hearing

About 20 supporters of Yoon began to wave the South Korean and US flags in front of the court's main gate from 9 a.m., chanting slogans such as "Yoon Again." Some of them shouted, "The president is not guilty."

On the street across from the court's gate, a banner was hung that praises the presiding judge of Yoon's trial, Yonhap news agency reported.

A car carrying Yoon entered the court at 9:50 a.m. amid the cheers of his supporters.

At the same time, meanwhile, a group of Yoon's opponents held a news conference near the court calling for the re-arrest and stern punishment of the former president.

The Seoul Central District Court is set to open the hearing on Yoon's insurrection charges at 10 a.m. Monday. As the defendant, Yoon must attend the trial, Yonhap news agency reported.

Yoon will be the fifth former president to stand criminal trial.

He will be allowed to enter the court via an underground parking lot, with the court having set up security-related measures against potential rallies near the court building.

In January, Yoon was arrested and indicted on criminal rebellion charges. But he was released from prison last month after the Seoul court cancelled his arrest and allowed him to stand trial without being physically detained.

Reader Comments

J
James K.
This trial is such an important moment for Korean democracy. Whether you support Yoon or not, we should all respect the judicial process. Hope the truth comes out! 🇰🇷
S
Soo-Min P.
The fact that both supporters and opponents could gather peacefully shows how far South Korea has come. Though I disagree with Yoon's actions, I appreciate that everyone gets to voice their opinion.
M
Min-Jae L.
I was there today! The energy was intense but respectful. Both sides made their points without violence. Proud of how we handle political disagreements in Korea 👏
E
Eun-Ji K.
While I understand the passion on both sides, I wish the media wouldn't focus so much on the spectacle outside the court. The actual legal proceedings are what matter most here.
T
Thomas R.
Interesting to see the US flags among supporters. Makes me wonder about the international implications of this trial. Korea's political stability affects the whole region.
H
Hae-Won J.
The banner praising the judge before the trial even begins seems inappropriate to me. We should let the court do its work without attempts to influence public perception.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published

Tags:
Yoon Suk Yeol South Korea Politics Presidential Trial Rebellion Charges Seoul Court
You May Like!