Seoul: South Korea's National Assembly, led by the ruling Democratic Party (DP), has passed a bill to establish a special tribunal to handle insurrection cases related to the ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed attempt to impose martial law. The legislative body voted with 175 in favor, two against, and two abstentions, despite strong resistance from the main opposition People Power Party (PPP), formerly led by Yoon.

According to Anadolu Agency, the DP has been advocating for the creation of the special tribunal due to perceived delays and unfairness in the trials connected to the martial law case. The newly approved bill mandates the establishment of at least two special benches at both the Seoul Central District Court and the Seoul High Court. These benches will address cases involving insurrection, treason, and rebellion.

Lawmakers from the PPP attempted to block the bill through a filibuster, arguing that the DP is attempting to create court benches with judges favorable to their interests, thereby exerting control over the judiciary. The National Assembly swiftly overturned the martial law declared by Yoon within approximately six hours on December 3 of the previous year. Subsequently, Yoon was impeached and suspended on December 14.

Yoon was arrested and indicted for leading an insurrection in January, marking him as the first sitting president to be detained. Although released in March, Yoon was re-arrested in July and remains in detention. The Constitutional Court formally removed him from office in April.