Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol appeared before the Constitutional Court on Tuesday, rejecting allegations that he ordered military intervention against lawmakers. Yoon defended his actions as a warning to the opposition, not a threat of violence.
Yoon Refutes Claims of Military Force During Martial Law
On December 3, Yoon declared martial law, deploying troops to encircle the National Assembly. Lawmakers convened despite the military’s presence and nullified the decree, leading to the martial law’s swift repeal the next day.
Yoon denied allegations that he ordered soldiers to forcibly remove legislators. Special forces commander Kwak Jong-keun had testified that Yoon instructed troops to “break down the door and drag out the lawmakers.” Yoon rejected the claim, arguing that obstructing the vote would have sparked public outrage.
“If I had blocked the vote, I think I wouldn’t have been able to handle the consequences,” Yoon told acting Constitutional Court Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae.
Yoon also denied drafting a memo proposing an emergency legislative body before declaring martial law. He accused the opposition Democratic Party of undermining government operations, labelling them “shameless North Korea followers and anti-state forces.”
Legal Challenges and Political Turmoil
The National Assembly impeached Yoon on December 14, suspending his presidential powers. The Constitutional Court has until June to decide whether to remove him permanently or reinstate him.
Yoon also faces criminal investigations for rebellion and abuse of power. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment or the death penalty. After avoiding questioning, Yoon was detained on January 15 when authorities surrounded his residence. His defence minister, police chief, and senior military officials have also been arrested for enforcing the martial law decree.
South Korea Faces Fallout from Yoon’s Actions
Yoon’s declaration of martial law has shaken South Korea’s global reputation and domestic stability. The crisis has deepened political divisions, with the opposition calling for Yoon’s permanent removal.
After an arrest warrant extended Yoon’s detention, protests erupted outside a Seoul district court. Supporters of Yoon stormed the building, vandalising property and injuring 17 police officers. Authorities detained 46 protesters following the clashes.
Although South Korean presidents typically enjoy immunity during their tenure, Yoon’s charges of rebellion and treason fall outside this protection. The court’s decision will determine not only Yoon’s future but also the resilience of South Korea’s democratic institutions.