South Korea’s Impeached President Faces Court Over Arrest Request

South Korea’s impeached president appeared before a Seoul judge on Saturday as the court considered a request by law enforcement for his formal arrest, according to the Associated Press. Detained since Wednesday, Yoon faces potential rebellion charges tied to his declaration of martial law on December 3, which sparked the nation’s most significant political crisis since the late 1980s.

The Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials has sought a warrant to formally arrest Yoon. His lawyers revealed that he spoke for approximately 40 minutes during the nearly five-hour hearing but declined to disclose the content of his remarks.

A decision on the arrest warrant is expected late Saturday or early Sunday. If approved, Yoon’s detention could be extended for up to 20 days, allowing investigators to prepare an indictment.

Escorted by police, Yoon was transported from a detention center in Uiwang to the court, where thousands of supporters gathered nearby, calling for his release. Some protesters briefly breached police barricades near the courthouse.

The political turmoil began when Yoon declared martial law to resolve legislative gridlock, deploying troops to the National Assembly. Lawmakers later overturned the measure and impeached him on December 14.

Under South Korean law, rebellion charges carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment or the death sentence. Prosecutors have argued for Yoon’s arrest, citing his refusal to cooperate with questioning.