A court in South Korea has officially approved the arrest of President Yoon Suk Yeol for his decision to declare martial law last month.
The Seoul Western District Court granted the law enforcement’s request for an arrest warrant for Yoon after a lengthy deliberation, citing concerns that he may tamper with evidence.
Yoon, who recently became the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested, is being investigated for alleged insurrection. Despite being asked to be questioned by investigators, he refused, leading to a request for an extension of his detention.
During a hearing on Saturday, Yoon and his lawyers argued for his release, but it appears that he may remain in custody for an extended period. His arrest could lead to potential rebellion charges related to the martial law declaration on December 3, which sparked the country’s most significant political crisis since the late 1980s democratization.
The Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials, along with the police and military, now has the authority to extend Yoon’s detention for up to 20 days. Following this period, the case will be transferred to public prosecutors for indictment. Yoon’s legal team may also challenge the court’s decision to issue the arrest warrant.
