President Yoon Suk Yeol rebuking the special prosecutor on the 24th. [Court video / @birds_justice X account subtitle GIF] 

A video of President Yoon Suk Yeol's closing statement at his trial regarding the Marine Corps incident, which took place on the 24th, was released on the 27th and has set social media (SNS) ablaze. 

The video has caused a stir as it captures the resolute tone and atmosphere of the courtroom, which had previously only been partially conveyed through the text reports of some media outlets. 

During the trial held by the 22nd Criminal Agreement Division of the Seoul Central District Court, President Yoon looked directly at the special prosecution team and, in his characteristically firm yet calm tone, delivered a sharp warning: “I would like to ask the special prosecutor this as well. Do you think you are safe right now?”

He then proceeded to dismantle the special counsel's investigation by pointing out its legal loopholes and aggressive indictment practices point by point.

President Yoon publicly warned, “If you indicted without evidence despite knowing full well about the issues regarding the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) concerning abuse of power, falsification of official documents, and violations of the Public Official Election Act, then this itself constitutes abuse of power, and, depending on the circumstances, may also be a violation of the political neutrality of public officials.” 

He lamented, “If investigations are conducted in this manner without clear evidence, what will become of our country?” He added, “I am currently facing indictment and trial for many cases, but this is the first time I have delivered a closing statement in this manner,” strongly expressing the injustice of the current investigation and pointing out that the special counsel's investigation itself could become a target for future legal judgment. 

Yoon Suk Yeol, President of the Republic of Korea. [@jujuju12211 X account GIF] 

“All responsibility lies with me, the President... The others have done nothing wrong.”

In his closing statement that day, President Yoon drew attention by adopting a protective, leader-like stance toward his staff and associates who were also on trial. He emphasized his diplomatic actions and constitutional authority in the process of state affairs, taking all responsibility upon himself.

He asserted, “Even if the court sees various materials that I did not see and arrives at a different conclusion than mine, this is a matter I pursued based on the President's constitutional diplomatic authority. Therefore, the attribution of all responsibility lies with me.”

He then addressed the court, stating, “As far as I can see, the others here have no particular issues. If pursuing this task itself is legally problematic, I ask that you hold only me accountable for all of it.” With this, he defended the innocence of those standing in court with him and concluded with a stance of full responsibility. 

Unlike when the courtroom statements were summarized and relayed through media reports, the release of the video capturing President Yoon's actual voice and expressions has fueled even more intense reactions on social media. 

Netizens have flooded the platforms with supportive comments, such as: “Standing with President Yoon Suk Yeol until the end! (@51XX),” “A true leader who takes responsibility for the direction of state affairs as the person in charge. It’s such a stark contrast to others (@CoXX),” “The day will surely come when the sword of the special counsel turns toward you!! (daXX),” “A real man’s man (@isXX),” “Yoon Again!! (@abXX),” and “Our true President... I hope you return soon.. (@ziXX).” 

Yoon Suk Yeol, President of the Republic of Korea. [@yuyuyu_mimimi X account capture]