Lawmakers pass bill to create special insurrection tribunal

The National Assembly passed a contentious bill Tuesday to establish specialized tribunals for insurrection cases, a move spearheaded by the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK). Aimed at expediting trials stemming from the failed imposition of martial law in December 2024, the measure was pushed through a plenary session despite a fierce filibuster by the main opposition People Power Party. It entails the creation of at least two specialized judicial panels at the Seoul Central District Court and the Seoul High Court to hear insurrection cases exclusively. Supporters contend the measure is needed to ensure accountability for former President Yoon Suk Yeol and his aides over the declaration of martial law, while opponents describe it as legislative overreach aimed at exerting political pressure on the judiciary.