South Korea's impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol speaks after leaving Seoul's detention center in Uiwang on March 8, 2025. REUTERS
South Korean prosecutors are determined to convict President Yoon Suk Yeol for insurrection, even after a court ordered his release from prison. The head of the prosecutors' office made this clear on Monday, stating that the court's decision would not stop them from continuing the case.
Prosecutor General Shim Woo-jung acknowledged the court’s ruling but disagreed with its claim that Yoon’s detention was illegal due to a filing deadline issue. He directed his team to present strong arguments in court and push forward with the indictment.
Yoon has been on trial since February 20, facing accusations of leading an insurrection by declaring martial law on December 3. However, he lifted the order after just six hours. His lawyers argued that the charges were politically driven and lacked legal grounds. On Friday, the court ruled in his favor, leading to his release the next day.
Despite his release, Yoon remains suspended from office after being impeached by parliament. The Constitutional Court is expected to make a final decision soon on whether to reinstate him or remove him permanently. If the court removes him, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days.
Yoon defended his actions, stating that martial law was necessary to eliminate "anti-state" threats. However, parliament rejected his order within hours. His impeachment and trial have sparked strong reactions across South Korea. Some citizens and politicians support him, while others criticize him.
On Friday, the Seoul Central District Court ruled against extending his detention, leading to his release on Saturday. The prosecution chose not to appeal, citing past Constitutional Court rulings that rejected appeals in similar cases.
When Yoon left the detention center, he was greeted by large crowds of supporters. He later returned to his official residence, where he was initially arrested on January 15. His arrest had made history, as he became the first sitting South Korean president to be detained and indicted.
