Impeached South Korean President Defies Examination, Risks Arrest
south Korea’s impeached President, Yoon Suk Yeol, escalated the ongoing political crisis by failing to appear for questioning on Wednesday before a joint investigation team comprised of the defense ministry, police, and an anti-corruption body. This defiance significantly increases the possibility of his arrest.
according to reports from Seoul Broadcasting System (SBS), investigators are now considering issuing a second summons. The absence follows a statement from Yoon’s lawyer on Tuesday, who cited the incomplete formation of his defense team as the reason for his client’s non-appearance.The lawyer promised a statement in the coming days regarding the investigation agencies’ request.
This isn’t the only investigation targeting Yoon. A separate prosecutorial team has also summoned him, requesting his presence on december 21. The investigations center on opposition allegations of treason stemming from Yoon’s controversial declaration of martial law on December 3rd, a declaration that lasted only six hours before being overturned by parliament.
“Investigative agencies appear to be competing to issue summons and attendance requests, and this situation needs to be addressed,” Yoon’s lawyer stated, highlighting the complexities of the multiple investigations.
The impeachment vote on December 14th, triggered by the short-lived martial law declaration, suspended Yoon from office. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assumed the role of interim leader while the Constitutional Court deliberates on Yoon’s removal. This process could take several months.If the court removes Yoon, a new presidential election must be held within two months.
The precedent for this situation exists: In 2017,the court removed then-President Park Geun-hye after a three-month deliberation. Currently, Lee Jae-myung, leader of the opposition Liberal Democratic Party, is considered the leading contender to replace Yoon should the impeachment be upheld.
yoon,however,maintains his innocence,blaming the opposition party for being “soft on north Korea and China.” He portrays himself as a patriot defending the nation from foreign influence, a claim he has yet to substantiate with evidence.”I will never give up,” Yoon vowed, signaling his intention to fight the impeachment in court.
The situation in South Korea remains highly volatile, with meaningful implications for regional stability and US foreign policy interests in the Asia-Pacific region. The outcome of the Constitutional Court’s decision will undoubtedly shape the future political landscape of South Korea.
