Seoul High Court Insurrection Special Benches 2026: Judges to Meet for Guidelines
The Seoul High Court will meet on Jan 15 to discuss guidelines for special insurrection benches handling former President Yoon Suk Yeol's 2024 martial law case.
Can a specialized bench ensure a faster, fairer verdict for a former president? The Seoul High Court announced Wednesday it'll convene a judges' meeting on January 15 to establish special panels dedicated to insurrection cases stemming from former President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed martial law attempt in 2024.
Seoul High Court Insurrection Special Benches 2026: New Legal Mandate
This move follows a new law that came into force on Tuesday, mandating the creation of specialized panels to hear treason and rebellion charges. The Democratic Party pushed the bill through the National Assembly last month, citing concerns over potential delays and unfairness in trials involving the martial law incident. According to Yonhap News, the court will now define the specific requirements for judges assigned to these two new panels.
Implications for Former President Yoon's Trial
Currently, Yoon and several former officials are standing trial for their roles in the December 3, 2024, martial law declaration. While current proceedings will stay with existing panels, any subsequent appeals will be handled by these newly formed special benches. With Yoon's first verdict expected next month, the judiciary is racing to set the procedural stage for what could be the most significant appellate case in South Korean history.
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