Choi Sang-mok, who has been indicted for perjury in the trial of former Prime Minister Han Deok-soo concerning allegations of crucial duties during insurrection, has filed a request for the disqualification of Judge Jin-kwan Lee. Choi argues that there is a significant risk of unfair trial, which has prompted the court to suspend proceedings until the disqualification request is resolved. The Seoul Central District Court is handling the case alongside that of other high-profile defendants related to this matter.

During the proceedings on the 20th, Judge Lee announced that Choi has submitted his disqualification request citing potential bias, particularly concerning the charges of perjury against him. The court decided to separate Choi's case for further consideration of his request, while the trials of the other defendants will continue. Choi's lawyer highlighted concerns that the trial judge may have already formed an opinion regarding the truthfulness of Choi's testimonies during the earlier hearing of Han’s case.

Choi faces indictment due to testimony he provided during Han's trial last November, where he claimed to have recollections about an important document related to former President Yoon Suk-yeol's directives on the day of the emergency declaration but abstained from claiming full memory regarding the contents. The ongoing legal battle reflects broader issues within South Korean political and judicial circles, as multiple high-ranking officials find themselves embroiled in legal controversies, potentially impacting public trust in the judicial system.