Investigations Underway Amidst Political Turmoil
Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has resisted requests from investigators to be questioned regarding his recent failed attempt to impose martial law. This defiance comes as Yoon has been suspended from office since Saturday, facing multiple investigations into allegations of insurrection by South Korean prosecutors, as well as by a collaborative team involving police, defense ministry, and anti-corruption units.
Constitutional Court Initiates Proceedings
On Monday, South Korea’s Constitutional Court commenced proceedings to evaluate the impeachment, with a decision expected within six months. Yoon, along with members of his close circle, could face severe penalties, including life imprisonment or even the death penalty for insurrection if found guilty. The court has set a preliminary hearing for December 27, where Yoon’s presence is not mandatory, to gather all relevant investigative records.
Probes Intensify with High-Level Arrests
Investigators have taken significant steps by summoning Yoon for questioning twice, the latest on Monday, after he ignored an earlier call. His refusal to comply has led to considerations of seeking a court-issued arrest warrant. The investigation has also seen the arrest of key military figures, including the heads of the Defence Intelligence Command and the Army Special Warfare Command, accused of carrying out orders during the martial law attempt.
READ ALSO: South Korean Police Raid President Yoon’s Office Amid Martial Law Investigation
Public and Political Reaction
Massive protests have continued in Seoul, with demonstrators from both pro and anti-Yoon factions maintaining their presence, vowing to keep the pressure on as the court deliberates. The political landscape has shifted with the resignation of the People Power Party (PPP) leader Han Dong-hoon, who apologized for the turmoil caused by the martial law incident and criticized extremist views within his party.
International and Domestic Repercussions
While Yoon’s actions have led to domestic upheaval, the South Korean government, under Acting President Han Duck-soo, has tried to maintain normalcy, with Han engaging in diplomatic calls, including one with U.S. President Joe Biden, to underscore the continuity of bilateral relations. Meanwhile, North Korea has labeled Yoon as the “ringleader of rebellion” through its state media, using the chaos to critique South Korea’s political situation amidst ongoing tensions between the two nations.
