Constitutional Court to Hold First Preliminary Hearing on Yoon Impeachment Case on 27th... Presiding Judge's Session Closed to Public

Imiseon and Jeong Hyeongsik Appointed as Lifetime Justices
"Yoon President's Impeachment Case to be Prioritized Among Impeachment Cases"

On the 16th, the Constitutional Court completed the designation of the special justice who will oversee the impeachment trial request against President Yoon Seok-yeol, including the assignment of the presiding justice and evidence investigation, and officially began the trial.

The Constitutional Court, which decided to hold the first preparatory hearing for this case on the 27th, announced that it will prioritize the impeachment trial of President Yoon over other impeachment cases.

On the 16th, the Constitutional Court in Jongno-gu, Seoul, is proceeding with related procedures for a swift trial ahead of the full impeachment trial of President Yoon Seok-yeol. Photo by Kang Jin-hyung

Lee Jin, the Constitutional Court spokesperson, stated at a briefing held at the Constitutional Court in the afternoon, "(Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae) has designated two constitutional justices, Lee Mi-sun and Jeong Hyeong-sik, as special justices."

However, regarding the presiding justice, the spokesperson said, "It was decided to keep it confidential." He did not respond to reporters' questions about the reason for the confidentiality. The presiding justice for this case was assigned through a computerized lottery held that morning in accordance with relevant regulations.

The Constitutional Court completed the assignment of the presiding justice for this case through the computerized lottery on the same day but decided not to disclose it publicly.

When asked whether there would be any issues proceeding with the impeachment trial procedures with three justices' seats vacant, the spokesperson replied, "Even with the current six justices, it is possible to conduct both the impeachment trial hearings and arguments."

Meanwhile, the spokesperson announced, "The first preparatory hearing is scheduled for 2 p.m. on the 27th." Regarding President Yoon's attendance obligation, he said, "The respondent is obligated to attend the formal hearing."

Additionally, the Constitutional Court stated that among the several impeachment trial requests currently filed, it will prioritize the impeachment trial request against President Yoon. The Court is in the process of notifying President Yoon's side of the case reception and requesting the submission of a written response.