Former South Korean President Indicted for Abuse of Power
Former President Yoon Suk Yeol Faces Indictment and Custody Over Martial‑Law Claims
South Korea’s political landscape took a dramatic turn when ex‑president Yoon Suk Yeol was indicted on abuse of power and obstruction of special official duties for his controversial declaration of martial law last December.
Chronology of Legal Challenges
- In December, Yoon deployed troops to parliament to block a vote against his martial‑law decree.
- January saw Yoon detained after weeks of resisting arrest and using presidential security to thwart investigators.
- Despite a procedural release in March, the insurrection trial persisted.
- Last week, a new arrest warrant was issued to prevent Yoon from destroying evidence.
Prosecution’s Charge Details
Prosecutor Park Ji‑young outlined the case:
- Yoon neglected the mandated procedure for declaring martial law, including failing to convene all cabinet members.
- He drafted and discarded a false document falsely stating the prime minister and defence minister endorsed martial law.
Legal Representation and Court Interaction
The ex‑president’s legal lobby reported that Yoon defended himself in court for over 30 minutes, citing limited physical mobility and challenges faced during the hearing. The court denied the request to cancel his warrant.
Current Custody Conditions
Yoon is currently held in solitary confinement in a cell equipped with a fan but lacking air‑conditioning, as South Korea endures a severe heat wave.
