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.

  • samus12345@lemm.eeEnglish
    2·
    2 days ago

    That’s true, capitalism plays to the innate human tendency to want to acquire things and have power over others. But man, the US really turned it up to 11! I’m afraid that the grip of the oligarchs is too powerful to be overthrown by anything other than societal collapse, but I hope I’m wrong.

      • samus12345@lemm.eeEnglish
        2·
        2 days ago

        Same here! I lived in Germany for 10 years and often wish I’d never left nowadays.

        • DandomRude@lemmy.worldEnglish
          2·
          2 days ago

          Ahh, damn, I really wish we were more hospitable. But yes, good luck to us both, let’s hope it doesn’t get too dark on Sunday. I really hope so.

          • samus12345@lemm.eeEnglish
            1·
            2 days ago

            I mean I wish I hadn’t left Germany considering how the US has turned out! It was a lovely country and I was there for the fall of the wall and got to visit Eastern Germany (which I understand is a large part of where the far-right support comes from now…kind of like the US South).