Yoon, facing impeachment trial in South Korea, says ‘I am committed to liberal democracy’

President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared before the Constitutional Court for the first time on Tuesday as part of his impeachment trial, reaffirming his commitment to “liberal democracy” and urging the court to provide a favorable evaluation.

Yoon arrived at the court in a convoy escorted by the Presidential Security Service from the Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang, south of the capital. He has been detained there since last Wednesday. On December 3, he attended the trial’s third hearing, which focuses on his impeachment over allegations related to martial law.

“Today is the first time I am attending, so I will speak briefly,” Yoon stated as he took the floor, following an invitation to speak by presiding judge Moon Hyung-bae.

“Since I reached this age, especially during my time in public service, I have lived with unwavering faith in liberal democracy,” Yoon said. “Since the Constitutional Court is an institution that exists to defend the Constitution, I would like to ask the judges to evaluate me favorably from various perspectives.”

Yoon made history as the first president to attend his own impeachment trial, a stark contrast to former Presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Park Geun-hye, who did not appear during their respective trials.

This marked Yoon’s first public appearance since his declaration of martial law. He was impeached by the National Assembly on December 14 and suspended from office, pending an investigation into accusations of leading an uprising and abusing his power by declaring martial law.

The Constitutional Court has until June 11 (180 days from December 14) to either uphold Yoon’s impeachment or reject it, which would allow him to return to office. If Yoon’s impeachment is upheld, South Korea will be required to hold early presidential elections within 60 days.

Outside the court, Yoon’s supporters rallied with South Korean and US flags, along with banners proclaiming, “Impeachment is invalid.” To maintain order, police surrounded the court, deployed buses to secure the area, and took measures to prevent violence among demonstrators.