Yoon Suk-yeol, South Korea’s impeached president, appeared before the Constitutional Court on Tuesday, rejecting allegations that he ordered military intervention to target lawmakers. Yoon argued that his actions were intended as a political warning, not a violent threat.
Yoon Defends Martial Law Amid Accusations
On December 3, Yoon declared martial law and deployed troops around the National Assembly. Despite the military presence, lawmakers convened and voted to nullify the decree. Martial law was lifted the following morning.
During his first public court appearance, Yoon denied allegations that he instructed soldiers to forcibly remove lawmakers. Special forces commander Kwak Jong-keun testified that Yoon ordered troops to “break down doors and drag out lawmakers.” Yoon dismissed these claims as false.
“If I had obstructed the vote, the public backlash would have been unmanageable,” Yoon told acting Constitutional Court Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae.
Yoon also denied drafting a memo proposing the formation of an emergency legislative body before his martial law declaration. Instead, he accused opposition lawmakers of undermining government operations and supporting anti-state forces.
Political and Legal Battles Intensify
The National Assembly impeached Yoon on December 14, suspending his presidential powers. The Constitutional Court has until June to determine whether he will be permanently removed from office or reinstated.
In addition to impeachment proceedings, Yoon faces criminal charges of rebellion and abuse of power. Convictions could lead to life imprisonment or even the death penalty. Yoon avoided earlier questioning but was detained on January 15 after investigators surrounded his residence. Several high-ranking officials, including his defence minister and police chief, have also been arrested for their roles in the martial law enforcement.
Public Outrage and Protests Shake South Korea
Yoon’s martial law declaration has sparked widespread protests and tarnished South Korea’s democratic image. The political crisis has deepened divisions, with opposition parties demanding his permanent removal.
After the extension of Yoon’s detention, his supporters clashed with police outside a Seoul district court. Protesters stormed the building, vandalised property, and injured 17 police officers. Authorities detained 46 people involved in the violence.
South Korean presidents typically enjoy immunity while in office, but Yoon’s charges of rebellion and treason fall outside these protections. The Constitutional Court’s decision will determine his political fate and could have lasting implications for South Korea’s democracy.
