Yoon Suk Yeol, the President of South Korea, has been arrested on charges of insurrection, marking the first occasion a sitting head of state in South Korea has been detained amid a criminal probe. This development follows a 51-day investigation by the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) into Yoon's controversial attempt to suspend civilian rule on December 3. Allegedly, Yoon ordered troops to storm the National Assembly to prevent lawmakers from rejecting his martial law declaration, which was overturned within six hours.
The investigation revealed that Yoon's security detail played a role in the incident. According to Lee Jae-seung, deputy CIO chief, Yoon's team was involved in executing his orders that evening. The inquiry also brought former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun into the spotlight. Kim, who resigned following the failed martial law bid, appeared in court as part of the ongoing proceedings. During the investigation, Yoon questioned Kim about the drafting of the martial law declaration, suggesting prior knowledge and involvement.
"As far as I recall, on the night of Dec 1 or 2, you brought the proclamation to the residence," remarked Yoon.
"where we laughed as I said, let's just leave it as it is since it (the martial law) is not feasible," he added.
The CIO has officially recommended charging President Yoon with "leading an insurrection and abuse of power." His case file will be handed over to prosecutors, who are expected to decide within 11 days whether formal charges will lead to a criminal trial. Under South Korean law, a court ruling against Yoon could result in his removal from office and prompt new elections within 60 days.
Yoon has consistently refused to participate in the criminal probe. Lee Jae-seung noted that Yoon "consistently maintained an uncooperative stance" throughout the investigation. Meanwhile, Yoon's legal team has urged prosecutors to ensure the investigation "adheres to legal legitimacy and due process."
"conducted an investigation that adheres to legal legitimacy and due process," emphasized Yoon's legal team.
Amid these legal challenges, Yoon appeared in court on Thursday for a separate hearing at the Constitutional Court. This court will determine whether to uphold his impeachment and officially strip him of the presidency. At the time of this hearing, Yoon was held in a detention center, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
"I think the court should take steps to manage or regulate direct confrontations during the questioning of the witnesses," stated Choi Ki-sang, highlighting concerns about courtroom proceedings.
"all four hearings remaining unless there are 'special circumstances,'" indicated Yoon Kab-keun regarding the upcoming legal schedule.
The CIO has accused Yoon of conspiring with former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun and other military commanders to "disrupt the constitutional order." This charge underscores the severity of the accusations against Yoon and his associates.
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