UPDATE 2 - Impeached SKorea leader’s confidante to appear in court

UPDATES THROUGHOUT

By Alex Jensen

SEOUL (AA) - Choi Soon-sil -- whose name is a byword for South Korea’s ongoing leadership crisis -- appeared at Seoul Central District Court Monday afternoon to deny corruption and power abuse charges against her.

Dressed in drab prison garb bearing the number 628, Choi had not been seen in public since she infamously lost a designer shoe while being hounded by reporters when showing up for questioning by prosecutors in October.

Her notoriety has mounted over allegations that she abused her ties to President Park Geun-hye for personal gain and even secretly influenced state affairs.

It is a scandal that has dragged along numerous presidential aides and business leaders, but most notably prompted lawmakers to impeach Park earlier this month.

Described as the now suspended Park’s private confidante, Choi has been through no election or vetting process to warrant any kind of governing power.

Before she formally denied any wrongdoing at the court, Choi's attorney announced to reporters that “she has expressed her willingness to sincerely go through the trial.”

News of her appearance may have surprised some onlookers, particularly considering her attendance was not mandatory at this stage -- moreover, she dodged a recent request to be interrogated at a parliamentary session.

Meanwhile, Park awaits a final ruling on her impeachment by the Constitutional Court, which has up to six months to reach a decision.

Choi's trial could see a similar timeline, but a schedule is yet to be set.