Legal Setback: South Korean Court Upholds Detention of Impeached President Yoon Over Martial Law Issues
On January 16, 2025, the Seoul Central District Court denied a habeas corpus petition filed by the legal team of impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, challenging his detention.
President Yoon was arrested following his December 3, 2024, declaration of martial law, which led to significant political turmoil. He faces serious charges, including rebellion and abuse of power, with potential penalties ranging from life imprisonment to the death penalty.
During his initial interrogation by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials (CIO), Yoon exercised his right to remain silent and later refused further questioning, with his lawyers asserting the investigation’s illegality.
The Constitutional Court is currently reviewing the legality of Yoon’s impeachment and martial law declaration. If the impeachment is upheld, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days of his removal.