Impeached S. Korean President Yoon makes court appearance
Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court for the first time on Saturday to participate in a hearing that will determine if his detention will be prolonged. This comes as authorities continue their investigation into his unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law.
On December 3, Yoon, who maintains that his detainment is unlawful, plunged the nation into turmoil by attempting to halt civilian governance, arguing that urgent action was necessary to counter threats posed by what he described as “anti-state elements.”
On Saturday, staunch supporters of Yoon assembled outside the courthouse, with some attempting to encircle the blue van transporting the suspended leader, as observed by AFP correspondents.
In a dramatic turn of events, President Yoon’s attempt to impose martial law was swiftly curtailed, enduring a mere six hours. The move was thwarted as lawmakers decisively voted against it, even amidst the president’s directive for military forces to breach parliament in an effort to halt the legislative process.
Former President Yoon was formally impeached by the parliament, leading to a standoff that lasted several weeks as he defied arrest by remaining in his protected residence. The standoff concluded early Wednesday morning when authorities conducted a dawn raid, successfully detaining Yoon.
South Korea’s current president, Yoon, has become the nation’s first sitting leader to face detention, amid ongoing legal proceedings. During the initial 48-hour period granted to investigators, President Yoon has reportedly refused to cooperate with authorities.
The embattled former president continues to be held in custody following a request by investigators on Friday for a new warrant to prolong his detention.
A judge at the Seoul Western District Court is scheduled to deliberate on the request during a hearing set for 2:00 pm (0500 GMT), with her ruling anticipated by Saturday night or early Sunday morning.
Ahead of the hearing, President Yoon’s legal representative, Yoon Kab-keun, informed AFP that the leader plans to participate “with the aim of reclaiming his reputation.”
Should the new warrant receive approval, it is anticipated that Yoon’s detention could be prolonged by an additional 20 days. This extension would provide prosecutors the opportunity to finalize an indictment.
The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) has initiated an investigation into Yoon on charges of insurrection, a serious accusation that carries the possibility of a life sentence or capital punishment upon conviction.
