He had refused to testify: South Korea's former leader accused of 'insurrection' released

The Seoul Central District Court launched an investigation into Yoon on charges of 'leading an insurrection' and 'abuse of power' regarding the martial law declared on December 3, 2024. The National Assembly of South Korea demanded Yoon's removal from office, arguing that the martial law decision was unconstitutional. The court accepted the appeal filed by Yoon's lawyers and ordered the former president's release.

Yoon, who was taken into custody on January 15, was removed from the presidential residence and taken to the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO). It was reported that Yoon, whose first interrogation lasted more than 10 hours, refused to testify. Yoon, the first president in South Korean history to be taken into custody, was arrested by the Seoul Western District Court on January 19.

Protest by Yoon supporters

NEW INDICTMENT TO BE PREPARED

During Yoon's arrest, approximately 44 thousand people gathered around the court to hold protest demonstrations. The Corruption Investigation Office plans to refer the former president to the prosecutor's office within 10 days. The prosecution is expected to prepare an indictment after questioning the former president more comprehensively.

The Seoul Central District Court evaluated the appeal against Yoon's detention order and ruled for his release. One of Yoon's lawyers, Yun Gap-geun, stated, 'We prefer to remain silent while awaiting the court's decision.'

Yoon was accused of attempting to prevent lawmakers from overturning the decision by sending soldiers to the National Assembly during the declaration of martial law. Yoon's declaration of martial law to obstruct the investigation into him formed the basis for the charges of 'leading an insurrection' and 'abuse of authority.' Yoon denied the allegations and appealed the arrest warrant.

News Source: 12punto