A South Korean court has issued an arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol after his failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2024. Yoon faces charges of insurrection, prompting protests and legal challenges. The political crisis deepens as protests erupt in support of Yoon’s actions.
A South Korean court has issued an arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol after his brief attempt to impose martial law on December 3, 2024. Yoon's actions led to a political crisis, with parliament stripping him of his presidential duties. While a constitutional court ruling is pending, investigators are pursuing criminal charges, including insurrection. The arrest warrant follows multiple failed attempts for Yoon to comply with questioning.
Yoon's legal team has called the warrant illegal, arguing that the investigators lack the authority to probe a sitting president. They plan to apply for a court injunction to nullify the warrant. Meanwhile, protests have erupted in support of Yoon, with hundreds of people gathering outside his residence, chanting slogans in defense of his actions.
The investigation has also led to the indictment of two senior army officials linked to the insurrection charges. The probe involves a joint team of police, defense, and anti-corruption officials. Evidence suggests that Yoon authorized military intervention, including the use of force, during his attempt to impose martial law. While Yoon denies any intention to disrupt the constitutional order, his actions have intensified South Korea’s political turmoil.
In addition to Yoon's impeachment, his successor, Han Duck-soo, was also impeached, further deepening the crisis. Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok has assumed the role of acting president amidst the ongoing chaos.
