In a significant turn of events, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol is set to submit a written opinion and appoint a defense counsel to the Seoul Western District Court, responding to an arrest warrant requested by the Joint Investigation Unit on charges of insurrection and abuse of power. This was reported by the Yonhap news agency on Monday, citing statements from the president’s representatives.
According to Yoon Kab-keun, a lawyer and former prosecutor acting on behalf of President Yoon, the written opinion will be submitted later today. “The appointment letter for President Yoon’s defense counsel will be delivered to the court,” he confirmed, indicating the president’s commitment to engaging with the legal process.
The arrest warrant request follows allegations related to a short-lived imposition of martial law by President Yoon earlier this month. The Joint Investigation Unit has accused the president of insurrection and abuse of power, particularly after he reportedly ignored three summonses to appear for questioning.
President Yoon, who is currently suspended from office pending the investigation, has firmly denied the charges. He has described his declaration of martial law as an “act of governance” intended to warn the opposition party against what he views as their abuse of legislative power.
The Seoul court is expected to make a decision on the issuance of the arrest warrant following the investigators’ request. This decision holds the potential to significantly influence the nation’s political climate and governance.
This unfolding situation highlights the ongoing political tensions within South Korea, as the balance of power between the executive branch and opposition parties continues to be tested. The international community and domestic observers alike are watching closely, given the implications for South Korea’s democratic institutions and rule of law.
(With input from agencies)
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S. Korea's Yoon to submit written opinion to court over arrest warrant
cgtn.com
