Former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has been formally indicted on abuse of power charges related to his controversial 2022 martial law declaration, marking a dramatic escalation in a case that has gripped the nation's political landscape.
Unprecedented Political Turmoil
Prosecutors allege Yoon bypassed constitutional protocols by deploying troops to parliament on December 3 last year, attempting to block legislators from voting against his emergency measures. The move triggered nationwide protests and constitutional challenges.
Legal Repercussions Mount
Yoon now faces multiple charges including obstruction of special official duties and document falsification. Prosecutor Park Ji-young revealed investigators found evidence that the former leader fabricated cabinet approval records for his martial law declaration.
Rollercoaster Detention Saga
The indictment follows Yoon's second detention in July after courts rejected his bail request, citing flight risks. His legal team's claims of health challenges were dismissed, with the ex-president currently held in non-air-conditioned facilities during a record-breaking heatwave.
Broader Implications
This case represents South Korea's first prosecution of a sitting president for insurrection-related charges, testing the nation's democratic institutions. Legal experts suggest the trial could set precedents for executive accountability in East Asia's third-largest economy.
