Court cancels arrest warrant for South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and releases him from custody
Background of events
On December 3, 2024, President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law in the country, justifying it as necessary for "rooting out pro-North Korean forces and protecting constitutional order." The military command issued a decree banning all political activity, including the work of the parliament. However, just a few hours later, the National Assembly voted to cancel the martial law, and it was lifted.
The next day, opposition parties initiated impeachment proceedings against the president, accusing him of violating the constitution and attempting a violent power grab. On December 14, parliament supported the impeachment, temporarily removing Yoon Suk-yeol from office.
Arrest and legal proceedings
On January 15, 2025, Yoon Suk-yeol was arrested on charges of treason and abuse of power. The Western District Court of Seoul issued an arrest warrant, citing concerns over the destruction of evidence and potential influence on witnesses. After the arrest, the president’s supporters staged protests demanding his release.
Cancellation of arrest and release
In February 2025, Yoon Suk-yeol filed a petition with the Seoul Central District Court, challenging the legality of his arrest and the charges. The court granted his petition, noting that the investigation into the coup did not fall under the jurisdiction of the High-Ranking Public Officials Anti-Corruption Investigations Office (CIO), which had requested his arrest. Additionally, the court doubted whether the coup charge had been formally filed before his detention period expired. As a result, the arrest warrant was canceled, and Yoon Suk-yeol was released from custody.
Current situation
Despite his release, Yoon Suk-yeol still faces serious criminal charges that could lead to life imprisonment or even the death penalty if convicted. He is awaiting a decision from the Constitutional Court regarding the impeachment, deepening the political crisis in the country.
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