A Seoul court has issued an arrest warrant for South Korea’s suspended president, Yoon Suk Yeol, over his controversial attempt to impose martial law on 3 December. This marks the first time a sitting South Korean president faces potential arrest, deepening the nation’s ongoing political crisis.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Yoon is under investigation for insurrection and abuse of power. Prosecutors sought the arrest warrant after Yoon ignored three summonses for questioning over the past two weeks. His lawyer, Yun Gap-geun, has described the warrant as “illegal” and maintains that Yoon’s declaration of martial law falls within his constitutional authority.
The arrest warrant grants investigators 48 hours to detain Yoon for questioning. However, logistical challenges—including resistance from Yoon’s security team and supporters—may hinder the warrant’s execution. Similar attempts to detain prominent politicians in South Korea have been thwarted in the past by their aides and supporters physically blocking police efforts.
Political Turmoil
South Korea has been in political disarray since the short-lived martial law declaration. Yoon and his successor have both been impeached by parliament, leaving the country without stable leadership. Following his suspension on 14 December, Yoon’s duties were handed to Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who himself was impeached by lawmakers last week.
Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok, now serving as both acting president and acting prime minister, is also facing potential impeachment. Opposition lawmakers, frustrated by the veto of their proposal to appoint three additional constitutional court judges, are threatening further actions against government leaders.
Uncertain Outcomes
Yoon’s impeachment must be upheld by the country’s constitutional court for him to be removed from office. However, with only six judges currently sitting on the nine-member bench, a single dissenting vote could prevent his removal. Yoon has vowed to “fight to the end” while accepting his legal and political responsibilities.
Meanwhile, Yoon’s whereabouts remain undisclosed, and he is banned from leaving the country. Political observers predict that the crisis could escalate further if Yoon’s arrest is unsuccessful or if the constitutional court’s ruling is delayed.
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