South Korean authorities seek to detain impeached President Yoon for martial law probe

In South Korea, a political crisis has escalated following President Yoon Suk Yeol's controversial martial law declaration made on December 4, 2024. Claiming the need to combat North Korean influence in the opposition party, Yoon's decree lasted only hours after it faced immediate pushback from the National Assembly, which voted to revoke the emergency measures amidst public outrage. Following this political turmoil, South Korean law enforcement initiated an investigation into Yoon's actions. He was impeached on December 14, 2024, with lawmakers reviewing whether his martial law decree constituted rebellion and whether it violated laws against abuse of power. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials submitted a warrant request motivated by allegations that Yoon attempted a power grab. Yoon's defense claims that the investigation lacks legal basis, asserting that an incumbent president enjoys immunity from prosecution for the misuse of power. His lawyer argued that while some scholars propose investigations into presidential abuses, they should be conducted with caution. Despite the president's claims of privilege, discussions have persisted around the legality of detaining him and the implications for South Korean democracy. This situation has brought about severe political ramifications, not only for Yoon but for his government as well. The National Assembly has also moved to impeach Prime Minister Han Duck-soo for perceived failures in his duties during this crisis. The case will ultimately be decided by the Constitutional Court, which holds the power to uphold the impeachment or reinstate Yoon. As deliberations continue, the political landscape remains fraught with tension and uncertainty regarding governance and the rule of law in South Korea.