Former President Yoon Back in Custody Amid Martial Law Scandal
Yoon Suk Yeol insurrection arrest follows new evidence linking him to a 2024 martial law attempt in South Korea. His re-arrest marks the start of a new chapter in the nation’s ongoing battle with a constitutional crisis that rocked its democratic institutions.
Arrest Warrant Issued Despite Problems with the Evidence
On July 10, 2025, the Seoul Central District Court issued an arrest warrant for Yoon, citing a risk of evidence destruction. An independent counsel examined Yoon’s unexpected but momentous martial law proclamation last year and uncovered new facts that led to the verdict.
December Crisis: Martial Law and Democratic Disintegration
In December 2024, Yoon shocked the nation by declaring martial law, arguing that opposition MPs were blocking his policy agenda because of a political deadlock. MPs forced their way into the National Assembly and rescinded the proclamation, prompting a reversal of the measure within six hours.
Authorities detained Yoon in January on rebellion charges—the first time a sitting South Korean president faced such action, despite the reversal. A technical rejection of the arrest warrant resulted in his release in March.
Constitutional Court Removed Yoon from Office
By April 2025, South Korea’s Constitutional Court unanimously ruled to remove Yoon from power, calling his martial law attempt a “grave betrayal of the people’s trust.”
After voters ousted his predecessor, they elected Lee Jae-myung president in a snap election, and independent prosecutors began pursuing full accountability.
Charges: Abuse of Power, Obstruction, Military Deployment
According to leaked court documents, Yoon is now charged with:
- Abuse of power
- Obstruction of official duties
- Authorizing military deployment to block lawmakers
- Ordering force against parliament
- Suppressing secure phone communication records
- Obstructing anti-corruption warrant executions
Investigators allege that Yoon sought to neutralize political opposition and shut down the National Assembly’s operations. They claim he even directed troops to “break down doors” and “drag out lawmakers.” His lawyers, however, deny claims that he ordered the use of firearms.
Defense: ‘Politically Motivated, Flawed Process’
Yoon’s legal team blasted the re-arrest as “rushed and unjustified,” arguing that most involved individuals are already detained and all major evidence is secured. They labeled the investigation politically motivated, accusing the counsel of asking only basic-level questions. They also criticized the counsel for failing to bring forward treason charges.
What’s Next for South Korea?
Yoon’s downfall marks a turning point in South Korea’s democratic resilience. While President Lee works to restore stability, the nation continues to grapple with recent turmoil. Citizens are still processing the extraordinary breach of constitutional order by a former head of state.
Source: CNN