SEOUL, Jan 16 (Alliance News): South Korea’s impeached President, Yoon Suk Yeol, faced renewed legal proceedings on Thursday, following his dramatic arrest the previous day over his failed martial law declaration.
The arrest made history, as Yoon became the country’s first sitting president to be detained. The Constitutional Court was set to hold its second hearing regarding his impeachment, which could determine if Yoon’s presidency will be officially terminated.
Yoon, who faces insurrection charges, was interrogated by the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) on Wednesday but invoked his right to remain silent. Despite hours of questioning, Yoon’s lawyer announced that the former president would not participate in Thursday’s continued questioning due to health concerns.
Yoon’s lawyer, Yoon Kab-keun, stated that Yoon had already explained his position the day before and that there were no further matters to address.
On Wednesday, the controversial arrest saw a large contingent of police and investigators cutting through barriers and scaling ladders to enter Yoon’s protected residence, which was surrounded by guards.
Yoon complied with the authorities, although he rejected the legality of the investigation and voiced his frustrations publicly.
Following his arrest, Yoon’s legal team filed for a review of the warrant used to detain him, hoping to delay the process.
A court hearing was scheduled Thursday afternoon to review the legality of the arrest. Experts suggest that Yoon’s team is using all available legal means to prolong the situation.
The case stems from a declaration made by Yoon on December 3, when he called for martial law, citing security threats from North Korea and anti-state forces. After deploying troops to Parliament and facing resistance, Yoon rescinded the martial law order after six hours. He was subsequently impeached by the National Assembly, leading to the arrest and legal proceedings.
Parallel to the investigation, the Constitutional Court is deliberating on whether to uphold Yoon’s impeachment.
If upheld, South Korea will hold fresh elections within two months, effectively removing Yoon from office.
His legal team requested a delay in Thursday’s hearing, but the court has decided to proceed without any postponements, with hearings expected to continue for several months.