The courtroom was packed as hearings opened on Thursday under heavy security. The 64-year-old has been behind bars since he was arrested last month on charges of insurrection, for which he could be sentenced to life in prison or face the death penalty.

Summary

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol became the country’s first sitting leader to stand trial on criminal charges after his impeachment and arrest for allegedly attempting to impose martial law.

Prosecutors accuse him of insurrection, which could carry a life sentence or the death penalty. His lawyers argue the charges lack legitimacy, claiming martial law was within his presidential authority.

Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court is deliberating whether to formally remove him from office, with a decision expected within weeks.

If removed, new presidential elections must be held within 60 days.

    • DandomRude@lemmy.worldEnglish
      10·
      1 day ago

      Ye, the US should consider the same in light of current events. If the totally incorruptible Supreme Court continues to insist that the president is a god-king who is above the law, appropriate measures should be considered if at least a semblance of democracy is to be preserved.

      • Jericho_Kane@lemmy.orgEnglish
        10·
        1 day ago

        I’m always flabbergasted that America got conned by this guy. Like not some vharismatic smart sweet talker, no. Donald fucking Trump. A fat guy in a diaper who can’t really reaf or talk that well and never had a smart tgought in his life.

        • DandomRude@lemmy.worldEnglish
          2·
          1 day ago

          I feel the same way, but unfortunately I’m not so sure that it won’t be similar in my home country. I’m from Germany and there’s an election this weekend. Unfortunately, I fear that the AfD, a neo-Nazi party pretty similar to MAGA, will do very well. It probably won’t be as bad as in the US, but there are unfortunately many incredible stupid people all around the world. It’s the same song in many countries: braindead xenophobic slogans to hide the fact that it’s all about making the richest even richer.

          • samus12345@lemm.eeEnglish
            4·
            1 day ago

            I very much worry that the rest of the world will be following the US into a fascist abyss. We’re rightfully being condemned by people in other countries, but they should also pay attention to their governments at home. When Germany no longer has many qualms about putting far-right people in power, you know the world is in big trouble.

              • samus12345@lemm.eeEnglish
                2·
                1 day ago

                I’ll be watching the results this weekend and hoping you guys are smarter than we were!

                • DandomRude@lemmy.worldEnglish
                  2·
                  1 day ago

                  Thank you, I hope so too. And you’re absolutely right: if not even the Germans have learned from their terrible history, then it probably won’t be any different anywhere else. Honestly, I’m ashamed of my fellow countrymen. We really should know better.