Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Appears in Court for Detention Hearing
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court for the first time on Saturday as a judge prepared to rule on whether to extend his detention. Authorities are investigating Yoon over his failed attempt to impose martial law, a move that plunged the country into political turmoil.
Yoon Faces Investigation Over Failed Martial Law Attempt
Yoon’s arrest has been highly controversial, with the former leader maintaining that his detention is unlawful. On December 3, he attempted to suspend civilian rule, claiming it was necessary to counter “anti-state elements.” His efforts were short-lived, lasting only six hours before lawmakers voted to overturn the order. Despite his attempts to deploy soldiers to block the vote, the National Assembly proceeded with his impeachment.
For weeks, Yoon resisted arrest, remaining inside his heavily guarded residence until he was finally taken into custody during a pre-dawn raid on Wednesday.
Court Hearing to Decide Detention Extension
A judge at Seoul Western District Court is reviewing a request to extend Yoon’s detention, with a decision expected late Saturday or early Sunday. If granted, the extension could keep Yoon in custody for an additional 20 days, allowing prosecutors time to build their case and file formal charges.
The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) is investigating Yoon on insurrection charges, which could lead to a life sentence or even the death penalty if he is convicted.
Supporters Rally as Yoon Remains Silent
As Yoon arrived at court, his loyal supporters gathered outside, waving South Korean and American flags while demanding his release. Some attempted to block the van transporting him to the courthouse, according to AFP reporters.
Despite being in custody, Yoon has refused to answer investigators’ questions. His legal team argues that he already stated his position upon his arrest. His lawyer, Yoon Kab-keun, stated that the former president was attending the hearing “to restore his honor.”
Constitutional Court and Political Fallout
In addition to the criminal investigation, Yoon is also facing impeachment proceedings in the Constitutional Court, which will determine whether he will be permanently removed from office. If the court upholds his impeachment, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days.
Although he won the presidency in 2022, Yoon’s power has been significantly weakened due to the opposition Democratic Party’s parliamentary majority, which was secured in last year’s legislative elections.
The Democratic Party has welcomed his arrest, with a senior official calling it “the first step toward restoring constitutional and legal order.”
Adding to Yoon’s troubles, parliament passed a bill late Friday to launch a special investigation into his failed martial law attempt, further escalating the political crisis surrounding the impeached leader.
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