In an unprecedented move, a South Korean court has issued an arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol following his controversial imposition of martial law earlier this month. The joint investigation unit announced on Tuesday that the warrant was confirmed by the Seoul Western District Court earlier in the morning.
The investigation unit, comprising the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials, the National Office of Investigation, and the Defense Ministry’s investigation headquarters, stated that while the warrant has been issued, no schedule has been set for its execution. Typically, such warrants are valid for one week from the date of issuance.
First in Modern Korean History
This marks the first time in South Korea’s modern history that an arrest warrant has been issued against a sitting president. President Yoon stands accused of insurrection and other charges related to his declaration of martial law on December 3, a move that was swiftly revoked by the National Assembly mere hours later.
The impeachment motion against President Yoon was passed by the National Assembly on December 14 and has been submitted to the Constitutional Court for deliberation, a process that can take up to 180 days. During this period, President Yoon’s powers are suspended.
Refusal to Cooperate with Investigations
The joint investigation unit had previously requested President Yoon to appear for questioning on three occasions—December 18, December 25, and December 29—but he declined to receive the summonses or appoint a defense counsel. Only after the request for the issuance of the warrants did his legal team submit a written opinion and appoint defense counsel to the court.
Investigative agencies have identified President Yoon as a suspected ringleader in the alleged insurrection. In a televised address on December 12, he stated that he would not evade legal and political responsibility for his actions but has shown reluctance to engage with the investigative process.
Implications for South Korea’s Political Landscape
The issuance of the arrest warrant raises significant questions about the future of South Korea’s leadership and the stability of its democratic institutions. The unprecedented legal action against a sitting president underscores the tension within the country’s political sphere and could have far-reaching implications for South Korea’s economy and international relations.
As the Constitutional Court begins its deliberations, citizens and international observers alike are watching closely to see how this situation unfolds. The outcome could set a precedent for how constitutional crises are managed in South Korea and may influence the nation’s role in the broader Asian political landscape.
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South Korean court issues warrant to arrest impeached President Yoon
cgtn.com
