A South Korean court has canceled the arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, potentially leading to his release from jail while he awaits trial on insurrection charges. The ruling by the Seoul Central District Court on Friday raised questions about the legality of the investigation that led to Yoon’s arrest on January 15.
The court stated that its decision was based on procedural concerns, particularly the timing of the indictment, which came after Yoon’s initial detention period had expired. The court also cited issues regarding the legality of the investigation, which involved two separate agencies.
Despite this ruling, the insurrection charges against Yoon remain in place, and his impeachment trial is still ongoing before the Constitutional Court. The case stems from Yoon’s controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, which led to both his impeachment and that of the prime minister, who had taken over as acting president.
South Korea’s Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok currently serves as acting head of state, working to stabilize economic markets and reassure international partners amid the ongoing political turmoil.
Yoon’s legal team welcomed the court’s decision, calling it proof that the charges against him were politically motivated. “The court’s decision to cancel the arrest showed this country’s rule of law is still alive,” Yoon’s lawyers said in a statement. They also called for his immediate release, though prosecutors could still appeal the ruling.
The court’s decision has sparked both celebrations and protests across Seoul. Supporters of Yoon expressed relief, with one pro-Yoon protester stating, “Our president has suffered so much.” Conversely, opponents expressed outrage, with one anti-Yoon protester saying, “Anger shot through my head.”
Legal experts note that the ruling does not clear Yoon of wrongdoing but raises concerns about the integrity of the indictment. If these legal questions remain unresolved, higher courts could potentially overturn any trial court verdict.
Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court is expected to rule soon on Yoon’s impeachment. If he is removed from office, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days. The opposition Democratic Party insists that Friday’s court decision will not impact the impeachment trial.
Yoon, who lifted martial law just six hours after its declaration, maintains that his actions were necessary to counter “anti-state” elements. However, the opposition argues he violated his constitutional duty, leading to the ongoing legal battle that has deeply divided the nation.
