Ousted South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Faces Rebellion Charges Amid Political Turmoil
The legal team of ousted South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has announced plans to contest allegations of rebellion related to his failed attempt to impose martial law earlier this month, Yonhap News Agency reported on Tuesday.
Yoon, who was suspended by lawmakers on Saturday through an impeachment vote, faces two judicial investigations into his declaration of martial law during the night of December 3-4. In an unexpected move, the 63-year-old former prosecutor sent the military to the National Assembly in an attempt to suppress lawmakers. He withdrew the order six hours later under pressure from both the parliament and mass protests.
If convicted of rebellion, Yoon and his allies involved in the failed coup could face life imprisonment or even the death penalty. He is currently barred from leaving the country.
According to Seok Dong-hyeon, one of Yoon’s attorneys, “The attempt does not meet the legal requirements to constitute rebellion.” Despite rejecting the validity of the charges, Seok confirmed Yoon’s willingness to comply with the investigations.
Prosecutors have summoned Yoon for questioning by Saturday, warning of a potential arrest warrant if he fails to appear. Meanwhile, a separate investigation involving police, anti-corruption officials, and the Ministry of Defense is pursuing evidence, including telephone records from the Presidential Guard’s offices.
Yoon has repeatedly delayed attending these interrogations, with his office rejecting an earlier summons for Wednesday. The individual responsible for denying this request has not been identified, according to officials.
Political and Legal Ramifications
The Constitutional Court began its review of Yoon’s impeachment motion on Monday. If upheld within the next six months, Yoon will be permanently removed from office, triggering a presidential election within two months. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is set to serve as interim president during the transitional period.
The court has scheduled a preliminary hearing for December 27, which Yoon is not required to attend. Lee Jean, a court spokesperson, emphasized the case’s high priority, stating, “This matter will be addressed with utmost urgency.”
Experts widely believe the impeachment is likely to be confirmed, citing the gravity of Yoon’s constitutional violations.
Public Outrage and Protests
Anti-Yoon protests have escalated across South Korea since his failed coup, with large gatherings calling for his permanent removal and smaller rallies showing support. On Monday night, hundreds of South Koreans held a candlelight vigil in central Seoul, demanding justice.
“I returned here, hoping we will never have another president like him,” said Kim Chan-suk, a 67-year-old protester.
Han Myung-hak, 52, vowed to continue protesting until the court issues its final decision. “I come out every day to keep fighting,” he said.
The case marks one of South Korea’s most dramatic political crises, with its outcome poised to shape the nation’s democratic future.
