Prosecutors Request Arrest Warrant for Ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol
South Korean prosecutors have escalated their investigation into former President Yoon Suk Yeol by requesting a court to issue a fresh arrest warrant. This move follows Yoon's repeated refusal to comply with summonses regarding his controversial attempt to impose martial law.
Background: Impeachment and Martial Law Controversy
Yoon, who was formally removed from office in April, faced impeachment due to his actions on December 3 when he attempted to subvert civilian rule. His declaration of martial law involved deploying armed soldiers to the parliament, igniting outrage and prompting legal proceedings against him.
Current Legal Proceedings and Non-Compliance
Currently standing trial on insurrection charges, Yoon has personally appeared in court to defend himself. However, a special counsel appointed to investigate the martial law declaration has summoned him multiple times for questioning, which he has declined to attend.
In a statement, the special counsel disclosed that the arrest warrant is sought primarily on charges including obstruction of official duties to facilitate Yoon’s interrogation. The statement emphasized his clear refusal to respond to further summonses.
Prosecutor’s Perspective on Investigation Urgency
Prosecutor Park Ji-young, a member of the special counsel, highlighted that Yoon is among several suspects called for questioning, yet he remains the only one evading the process. She stressed the limited timeframe within which the counsel must operate and expressed urgency to advance the investigation without delays.
Yoon’s Defense and Upcoming Trial
During his latest court appearance on Monday, Yoon argued that the martial law declaration was intended merely to send a firm message to the public, executed with minimal personnel and unarmed soldiers.
The next hearing in Yoon’s trial is scheduled for July 3, as the judicial process continues to unravel the complexities of this unprecedented political crisis.
