'15 Consecutive Absences' in Insurrection Trial, Proceedings Continue in Absentia Without Yoon

[Financial News] Former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who is on trial as the ringleader of the December 3 Martial Law insurrection case, once again failed to appear in court.
On the 20th, Yoon Suk Yeol was absent from the 23rd hearing for charges of leading an insurrection and abuse of power, presided over by Judge Ji Gui-yeon of the Ulsan District Court's 25th Criminal Division. With this absence, Yoon has missed 15 consecutive hearings since July 10.
Yoon's attorney stated, 'There has been no change in the previously submitted reasons for non-attendance,' but explained that if a key witness is selected, Yoon may consider appearing in court depending on his health.
The court commented, 'Since there is no change in the report from the detention center, we intend to proceed in absentia,' and added, 'If he continues to be absent, he will bear the disadvantages, so please try to persuade him.'
According to the Criminal Procedure Act, if a defendant is absent without a valid reason, the trial may proceed in absentia. Yoon Suk Yeol must accept any consequences that arise during the trial process due to his absence.
Since being re-detained on July 10, Yoon Suk Yeol has missed 14 insurrection trial hearings and has also refused to comply with summonses from the Special Prosecutor's Team for Insurrection and the Special Prosecutor's Team for Kim Kun-hee. However, he did appear at the first hearing of an additional indictment by the Special Prosecutor's Team for Insurrection on the 26th of last month and at a summons on the 15th, marking his first appearances in about two months.
theknight@fnnews.com Jung Kyung-soo Reporter