A South Korean court has extended the detention of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, citing fears he could tamper with evidence in an ongoing criminal investigation into his declaration of martial law in December. The Seoul Western District Court approved a request from the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), allowing Yoon to be held for an additional 20 days.
The court said that the extension was required because it feared that Yoon might destroy evidence. Yoon, who has been under detention since a law enforcement raid on his residence, has refused to cooperate with the CIO’s investigation and has not attended questioning sessions.
The decision to extend Yoon’s detention sparked chaotic scenes outside the courthouse, as thousands of his supporters gathered, clashing with police. Authorities detained about 40 protesters, including some who attempted to breach the court’s perimeter. Several vehicles belonging to anti-corruption investigators were damaged as they departed the court.
Yoon faces serious charges of orchestrating a rebellion following his brief declaration of martial law, which plunged South Korea into its most severe political crisis since democratization in the 1980s. His legal team argues that the martial law decree was a lawful exercise of presidential powers and that the rebellion charges will not stand in court.
According to reports, during the closed-door hearing, Yoon spoke to the judge for 40 minutes. His legal team and anti-corruption officials presented opposing views on whether his detention should continue. The president was transported to the court amid tight security, with a significant police presence managing the crowds of supporters.
Nine of the top officials, including Yoon’s defense minister and police chief, have already been arrested and charged for their roles in enforcing martial law. According to South Korean law, orchestrating a rebellion can lead to life imprisonment or the death penalty.
