The Seoul Central District Court has annulled the arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, a move that could lead to his release from detention. Yoon has been held since mid-January on charges of leading an insurrection after briefly imposing martial law on December 3, 2024.
Announced on Friday, the court’s decision stemmed from procedural concerns. According to Reuters, judges ruled that the indictment was filed after the initial detention period had expired, raising legal questions about the investigation, which involved two separate agencies. The court emphasized that these procedural flaws warranted the cancellation of the arrest warrant.
FILE PHOTO: South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol attends the hearing of his impeachment trial over his short-lived imposition of martial law, at the Constitutional Court in Seoul, South Korea, February 20, 2025. SONG KYUNG-SEOK/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo
Despite the ruling, Yoon’s legal troubles are far from over. He still faces serious charges related to his declaration of martial law—an act widely condemned as a potential threat to South Korea’s democratic institutions. If convicted, he could face severe penalties, including life imprisonment or even the death penalty.
The decision has sparked strong reactions across the country. Supporters gathered outside the Seoul Detention Center, celebrating the ruling and demanding Yoon’s immediate release. Meanwhile, critics voiced concerns that the annulment could weaken efforts to hold him accountable for actions they view as undemocratic.
Supporters of South Korean impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol gather after the court cancelled his arrest warrant, in front of the Seoul detention center in Uiwang, South Korea, March 8, 2025. REUTERS/Kim Hong-ji
Prosecutors are now weighing whether to appeal the decision. They have seven days to file an appeal, during which Yoon will remain in detention.
Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court is expected to rule soon on whether to uphold Yoon’s impeachment by the National Assembly. If the court affirms the impeachment, Yoon will be permanently removed from office, triggering a snap presidential election within 60 days, according to Reuters.
The court’s decision has deepened political tensions in South Korea, where public opinion remains sharply divided. As prosecutors and the Constitutional Court prepare to make their next moves, the nation is bracing for further political turbulence in the weeks ahead.
