Military Leader Testifies: Yoon Commanded Troop Action to Forcibly Evict Legislators from Assembly
May 26, 2025: Former President Yoon Suk Yeol leaves the Seoul Central District Court following the conclusion of the fifth hearing related to his martial law trial.
The hearing, which centered on insurrection charges stemming from Yoon's declaration of martial law in December 2024, marks another step in the ongoing legal proceedings against the former head of state. The trial began following the Constitutional Court's upholding of Yoon's impeachment on April 4, 2025, after he was accused of violating the Korean Constitution.
Witnesses called to testify in the trial include retired Brigadier General Lee Sang-hyun, former commander of the 1st Airborne Brigade, who is expected to shed light on the deployment of special forces to the National Assembly during the martial law period.
The public and political figures have expressed divergent opinions on Yoon's actions. His decision to declare martial law has been seen by some as an attempt to consolidate power and undermine democratic institutions, while others view it as a necessary measure during a period of political unrest.
The controversy surrounding Yoon's presidency has led to significant polarization within South Korea. The public and international communities are closely following the ongoing trial and its implications for the country's political landscape. A new presidential election is scheduled for June 3, 2025, reflecting the political upheaval following Yoon's removal from office.
Further legal repercussions for Yoon include additional charges of abuse of power. The former president has largely remained silent throughout the trial, particularly during the fifth hearing. Yoon was impeached by the National Assembly on December 14, 2024, primarily due to his decision to declare martial law on December 4, 2024. The declaration was met with significant opposition, as it was seen as an attempt to suspend the legislative branch and impose executive control over the government.
In related news, citizens and National Assembly staff were reported to have fended off soldiers from entering the National Assembly building on Dec. 4, 2024, a day after Yoon declared martial law. A journal alleged to contain "VIP's orders" was also discovered during this period. These details serve to underscore the tumultuous events that have unfolded during Yoon's presidency and the ongoing efforts to seek justice and accountability.
In the ongoing trial of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, opinions on his decision to declare martial law in December 2024 remain divided, with some viewing it as an attempt to consolidate power and undermine democratic institutions, while others argue it was a necessary measure during a period of political unrest. The contentious political climate has led to significant polarization within South Korea, with the public and international communities closely following the developments in the martial law trial and its implications for the country's political landscape. Additionally, the editorial section of general-news outlets often delves into the war-and-conflicts-related consequences of Yoon's actions, which include abuse of power charges.
