Former President Yoon Suk Yeol failed to appear in court on Friday for a second hearing of a new trial related to his martial law declaration. 

The Seoul Central District Court began the day’s hearing without the former president, who is charged with counts including obstruction of official duties. 

The court said a statement submitted by the defense had cited health reasons for Yoon's absence but had not explained why such issues would make him unable to attend court.

The court said that though the trial can proceed without Yoon if bringing him to court is impossible or highly difficult, Yoon’s absence appears to lack justification.

The court added that although Friday’s hearing will proceed without Yoon, the court would need to determine whether to continue proceedings in absentia on his next scheduled court date.