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South Korean Authorities Seek Arrest Warrant for Suspended President Yoon Suk-yeol

South Korea’s Joint Investigation Headquarters has requested an arrest warrant for suspended President Yoon Suk-yeol, focusing on charges of insurrection and abuse of power related to his controversial short-term declaration of martial law in December. This unprecedented act has resulted in significant political turmoil, marking a potential historic moment as this would be the first time a South Korean president faces criminal charges.

The joint team, comprising members from various investigative and military agencies, filed the arrest request after Yoon failed to respond to three summonses for questioning. A court decision on whether to issue the warrant is expected soon. Notably, while Yoon enjoys immunity from prosecution as a sitting president for most offenses, charges linked to rebellion or treason are exceptions.

Yoon’s legal representative criticized the actions of the Corruption Investigation Office, claiming overreach, and vowed to pursue formal challenges against the investigation. The martial law, declared on December 3, set off clashes in the National Assembly, reminiscent of past military dictatorships, as armed troops attempted to enforce Yoon’s decree, which lasted only six hours.

This political crisis deepened further when the opposition-controlled legislature impeached acting President Han Duck-soo, transferring authority to Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok. The opposition parties took this action after Han’s failure to appoint justices to the Constitutional Court, which is critical in reviewing Yoon’s impeachment.

As the court deliberates, it has six months to decide Yoon’s fate—either reinforcing his impeachment or restoring him to power. In a recent hearing, Yoon’s lawyers sought to postpone proceedings to prepare their case, but their request was denied.

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Photo credit www.aljazeera.com