South Korean prosecutors on Sunday indicted impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol in connection with his controversial imposition of martial law, according to Yonhap news agency.
The Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office has charged Yoon with rebellion in connection with his December 3 decree, which plunged the nation into political turmoil. While other South Korean media outlets have carried similar reports, the prosecutors’ office has not yet issued an official comment on the development.
The controversy began on December 3, 2024, when Yoon declared emergency martial law during an unannounced nationally televised address. He cited threats from “North Korean communist forces” and “antistate forces” as the reason behind the extraordinary measure. It marked the first imposition of martial law in South Korea since 1980 and sparked widespread unrest.
In a contentious move, Yoon deployed special forces to the National Assembly. However, he was forced to rescind the martial law order after the National Assembly vehemently opposed the decision.
On December 14, the National Assembly voted to impeach Yoon over his actions, leading to his arrest shortly thereafter. The former president remains in detention, awaiting a Constitutional Court verdict on whether his impeachment will be formally upheld.
Public outrage over the martial law declaration has been palpable, with citizens staging creative protests, including sending flower wreaths and using K-pop light sticks to express dissent.
The Constitutional Court is expected to deliver its decision in the coming months. If the impeachment is upheld, Yoon will be permanently removed from office. Furthermore, if convicted of rebellion, he could face significant prison time, further adding to the gravity of his legal troubles.