Seoul, South Korea — In an unprecedented move, a South Korean court on Tuesday issued an arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol over his imposition of martial law earlier this month, according to a statement from the joint investigation unit.
The investigation unit, comprising the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials, the National Office of Investigation, and the Defense Ministry’s investigation headquarters, confirmed the issuance of arrest and search warrants against Yoon in the early hours of the morning.
The unit stated that while the warrants are valid for one week from the date of issuance, no schedule has been set for their execution. This marks the first time in the nation’s modern history that an arrest warrant has been issued against a sitting president.
Yoon is accused of being a ringleader in an alleged insurrection following his declaration of martial law on the night of December 3, a controversial move that was swiftly revoked by the National Assembly hours later. The joint investigation unit had requested the warrants on charges of insurrection and other offenses the previous day.
Despite being asked to appear for questioning on December 18, 25, and 29, Yoon declined to receive summonses or submit documents appointing his defense counsel. However, his legal team submitted a written opinion and appointed defense counsel to the Seoul Western District Court just hours after the warrant issuance request.
In a televised address on December 12, Yoon stated that he would not evade legal and political responsibility for his actions. “I stand by my decision in the interest of national security,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to the country’s stability.
The National Assembly passed an impeachment motion against Yoon on December 14, which was subsequently delivered to the Constitutional Court. The court has up to 180 days to deliberate, during which Yoon’s presidential powers are suspended.
Analysts note that this development plunges South Korea into a period of political uncertainty. The issuance of the arrest warrant raises questions about the nation’s democratic processes and the balance of power between governmental institutions.
The situation is being closely monitored by international observers, business professionals, and the South Korean diaspora worldwide. The outcome could have significant implications for South Korea’s political landscape and its role in regional affairs.
As events unfold, stakeholders from global investors to academics are keenly watching for signs of stability or further unrest. The arrest of a sitting president on such charges is uncharted territory, adding complexity to an already tense political environment.
Reference(s):
South Korean court issues warrant to arrest impeached President Yoon
cgtn.com
