Does the defendant (judge) not attend criminal trials?

Presiding Judge accused of 3.47 million won 'entertainment golf' fails to appear at first trial
Presiding Judge Kim In-taek, who was summarily indicted for having overseas golf trip expenses worth approximately 3.47 million won paid by a duty-free shop employee on three separate occasions and subsequently requested a formal trial after contesting the decision, failed to appear at the first instance of his trial. (Related article: 'Myung Tae-kyun innocent' Judge Kim In-taek suspended for 3 months... overseas trips paid by acquaintances).
https://v.daum.net/v/20261111124236896