Seoul: A Seoul court held the first hearing of former Interior Minister Lee Sang-min's trial concerning his alleged involvement in former President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief imposition of martial law.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the hearing commenced at the Seoul Central District Court following Lee's indictment earlier this year. Lee, who is currently in detention, faces charges of playing a significant role in an insurrection, abuse of power, and perjury related to Yoon's attempt to declare martial law in December.
During the hearing, Lee appeared in the courtroom wearing a navy suit and an inmate number badge. After identifying himself to the bench, he declined the option for a jury trial. The proceedings are set to address the charges against the former minister and provide an opportunity for his legal team to respond.
The court permitted media coverage of the hearing, and the proceedings are scheduled to be broadcast online with edits to protect personal information. Lee is accused of aiding the imposition of martial law by failing to prevent Yoon from illegally declaring the decree. Additionally, he is suspected of instructing the police and fire agency to disrupt operations of media outlets critical of the administration by cutting off their power and water supplies.