**South Korea's Political Crisis: Impeachment Trial of President Yoon Suk Yeol Commences**

The ongoing impeachment trial of President Yoon Suk Yeol raises critical questions regarding South Korea's governance and democratic integrity.

The Constitutional Court of South Korea commenced formal hearings on Tuesday to assess President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment, amid rising tensions and the potential for his detention due to insurrection charges. Yoon, suspended since his impeachment by the National Assembly on December 14 for his brief declaration of martial law 11 days earlier, opted to remain at his fortified residence, citing fears of being apprehended by a large team of investigators.

Despite his impeachment, Yoon has shown resilience, proclaiming he will “fight to the end” to reclaim his position within the framework of the law. His refusal to step down or cooperate with ongoing investigations has plunged South Korea into a state of political uncertainty, raising questions about the stability of its democratic institutions.

The Constitutional Court holds the authority to determine the legitimacy of Yoon’s impeachment and whether he should be removed from office or reinstated. As the trial began, protestors gathered outside the court, with supporters of Yoon expressing their allegiance through flowers and wreaths as demonstrators shouted both for and against him.

Absent from the proceedings, Yoon's legal team cited concerns that investigators might detain him if he left his compound. The trial proceeded for only four minutes before the court adjourned, planning to reconvene on Thursday to continue deliberations which may occur without his physical presence.