President Yoon Suk-yeol speaks during a press conference in Seoul, South Korea. (Photo by Jung Yeon-Je - Pool/Getty Images)
(EPICSTORIAN) — South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is fighting to keep his position and avoid prison after his controversial martial law declaration.
The crisis began on December 3 when he deployed troops and banned political activities nationwide.
Lawmakers quickly pushed back, forcing their way into the National Assembly and overturning the decree within hours. Public anger surged, recalling past military regimes that ruled before South Korea’s transition to democracy.
The backlash reached its peak on December 14 when parliament voted to impeach Yoon, stripping him of his presidential powers. The Constitutional Court is now reviewing the case to determine whether he should be permanently removed from office.
A criminal trial for insurrection is also underway, where prosecutors argue that the martial law order was an attempt to suppress the legislature.
Former Ministers Claim to Possess Evidence Against the South Korean President
Testimony from former officials has revealed new details about the events leading up to the decree.
Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun stated that he drafted the order himself. A former intelligence official testified that Yoon saw martial law as an opportunity to detain political opponents.
Yoon has denied these allegations, arguing that his actions were necessary due to political instability and security threats.
The court’s decision on impeachment is expected in March. If upheld, Yoon would lose presidential immunity and face a lengthy prison sentence.
Also Read:Taiwan Detains Chinese-Crewed Ship Over Undersea Cable Disruption
A guilty verdict in his insurrection trial could result in life imprisonment. Political uncertainty continues, with Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok serving as acting president.
