Lee Jae-myung Fined $3,800 for 'Witness No-Show'; Court Cites 'Need for Sanction'

The Central Regional Military Court has imposed a fine of ₩5 million (approximately $3,800) on former President Yoon Suk-yeol for failing to appear as a witness. The court had scheduled Yoon to testify on November 25th in the trial related to former Defense Security Commander Yeo In-hyeong's alleged involvement in insurrection-related duties. However, Yoon did not appear, citing court preparation and health reasons.

The court deemed Yoon's reasons for non-attendance as unjustified. In a statement, the court emphasized the need for sanctions, stating that the reasons provided were not legitimate. Consequently, the court upheld its original decision to call Yoon as a witness and rescheduled his testimony for December 18th.

Yeo In-hyeong, who is on trial for allegedly engaging in key duties related to insurrection, testified about the emergency martial law situation during the 12/12 military coup. He reportedly provided detailed testimony regarding the list of individuals targeted for arrest at the time of the coup. Yeo also testified about an incident in which Defense Security Command personnel misidentified a specific individual. He stated that agents mistakenly identified broadcaster Kim Eo-jun as comedian Kim Ho-joong until the afternoon of December 4th.

The court reportedly determined that Yoon's reasons for not appearing were not justifiable after a thorough review. While Yoon's side cited trial preparation and health concerns, the court found these reasons insufficient to excuse his attendance as a witness. Yoon Suk-yeol is now required to pay the ₩5 million fine and is expected to appear as a witness in future court proceedings.

The court plans to take necessary measures to ensure Yoon Suk-yeol's attendance at the rescheduled witness examination on December 18th. The court anticipates that his testimony will play a crucial role in uncovering the truth of the case. Meanwhile, Yeo In-hyeong's trial will continue, and the court is expected to make a final judgment based on the evidence and witness testimonies presented.