South Korean President Faces Indictment Over Martial Law Decree

Prosecutors accuse President Yoon Suk Yeol of rebellion and abuse of power following a controversial six-hour martial law declaration in December.

President Yoon Suk Yeol is under investigation for rebellion, abuse of power, and obstructing parliament after declaring martial law on December 3, 2024.
The martial law, which lasted only six hours, involved deploying troops and police to the National Assembly, allegedly to prevent lawmakers from overturning the decree.
Yoon defended his actions, claiming the decree was intended to highlight public concerns about the opposition-controlled National Assembly, not to suppress lawmakers.
Yoon's defense minister, Kim Yong Hyun, also detained, claimed responsibility for drafting the decree but stated Yoon modified it to reduce its severity, including restricting the use of live ammunition.
The Constitutional Court is deliberating whether to formally remove Yoon from office following his impeachment by the National Assembly on December 14.