The ruling Democratic Party introduced a bill on December 22 to establish a special tribunal for insurrection cases tied to former President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed martial law imposition. The measure aims to address perceived delays and unfairness in ongoing trials but faces criticism for potential unconstitutionality and undermining judicial independence. The opposition has vowed to launch a filibuster to block it.
On December 22, 2025, the ruling Democratic Party of Korea introduced a bill in the National Assembly to create a special tribunal for handling insurrection cases connected to former President Yoon Suk Yeol's botched attempt to impose martial law. The party has advanced the legislation citing delays and perceived unfairness in the trials of those involved, despite widespread criticism that it may be unconstitutional and erode the independence of the judiciary. Under the proposed bill, judges for the tribunal would be selected by a body established under Supreme Court guidelines, a shift from an earlier plan involving a recommendation committee.
The main opposition People Power Party has pledged to initiate a filibuster to obstruct the bill, labeling it as 'unjust,' alongside other judicial reform measures pushed by the ruling party. The Democratic Party-controlled National Assembly can vote to terminate a filibuster 24 hours after it begins. Currently, Yoon and several former officials, including ex-Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, are facing trials on insurrection charges related to the failed martial law bid.
The judiciary has expressed opposition to the bill. Last week, the Supreme Court announced plans to set up special panels to address charges of insurrection, treason, and mutiny, positioning this as an alternative to the Democratic Party's initiative. The proposal forms part of broader judicial reforms but has sparked concerns over potential threats to judicial autonomy.
