The Seoul Central District Court said it made the decision because it could no longer afford to delay the trial, saying, "It is difficult to force Yoon to appear in court."
Citing health-related reasons, Yoon has been stalling questioning by independent prosecutors as well as a trial over his botched Dec. 3 declaration of martial law and other allegations.
After vigorously showing up for earlier hearings to defend himself, he has not appeared since being detained again at a remand prison in early July.
Earlier this month, the court had already warned that Yoon would bear any consequences caused by his absence.
Separately, earlier in the day, his wife and former first lady Kim Keon Hee appeared for questioning in Seoul, but she reportedly repeated her denial of all allegations.
With her detention period set to expire later this week, prosecutors are expected to indict, instead of seeking an extension, as Kim has been uncooperative, citing poor health, despite her occasional appearances for questioning.
Kim, accused of receiving luxury bribes, colluding in a stock manipulation scheme, and meddling in candidate nominations during the 2022 by-elections, has been held at a remand prison in southern Seoul since last month.
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