SEOUL – The first-instance final hearing for former President Yoon Suk Yeol, charged with leading an insurrection, was extended late into the night on January 9 but failed to reach a conclusion. Due to the massive volume of evidence and documents submitted by the defense, the court decided to designate January 13 as an additional hearing date for the prosecution’s sentencing recommendation and the defendants’ final statements.
The Seoul Central District Court’s Criminal Agreement Division 25, presided over by Judge Ji Gwi-yeon, convened the final hearing for eight high-ranking military and police officials, including former President Yoon, former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, and former National Police Agency Commissioner Cho Ji-ho. This hearing comes 348 days after Yoon was indicted under detention.
The proceedings were significantly delayed beyond initial expectations. The defense team for former Minister Kim submitted over 300 pages of documents, leading to an extensive examination of evidence. Furthermore, Yoon’s legal counsel stated that they required an additional five to six hours solely for the examination of their evidence. Although the trial lasted for more than 12 hours, the court was unable to complete the evidentiary phase.
Presiding Judge Ji Gwi-yeon remarked, "It would be more equitable and efficient for the presenters to speak while they still have the energy to do so. Conducting a defense in the early morning hours can hardly be considered an adequate legal proceeding." Consequently, the court adjourned the session and rescheduled the prosecution's sentencing request and the defendants’ final pleas for the coming Tuesday.
Judge Ji had previously noted the accelerated pace of the trial, stating, "We have conducted in one year a trial that would typically take three years. While the swiftness of the trial is important, the procedural satisfaction of the parties involved is also crucial." Legal observers interpret this as the court's intention to fully guarantee the defendants' right to defense, especially given the gravity of the impending verdict.
With the final hearing pushed to mid-January, the window for the first-instance verdict has narrowed to February. Legal experts suggest that the court is highly likely to deliver its judgment between mid and late February.
The atmosphere surrounding the courthouse remained tense as the public watched the "insurrection leader" case reach its climax. Despite the gravity of the charges, former President Yoon was observed appearing composed, occasionally showing a faint smile as he entered the courtroom, a contrast to the high-stakes legal battle unfolding inside.
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