South Korea's First Impeached President Charged with Insurrection

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South Korea's impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol has officially been charged with insurrection following his controversial attempt to declare martial law in December. This unprecedented legal action marks the first time a sitting president in South Korea has faced criminal charges. The indictment comes after a Seoul court denied a request to extend Yoon's detention.

Yoon, along with his former defense minister and several senior military officials, is accused of conspiring to impose military rule during a political crisis exacerbated by budget deadlocks and corruption scandals within his administration. His announcement on December 3, stating he would invoke martial law to combat "anti-state" forces, led to significant political turmoil and public unrest.

The insurrection charge carries severe penalties, including life imprisonment or, in theory, the death penalty. However, given South Korea's long-standing moratorium on executions, it is unlikely that the latter would be enforced. As the Constitutional Court considers whether to formally dismiss Yoon as president, public sentiment remains divided. Supporters have staged mass protests demanding his return to office.

Yoon’s legal team has criticized the charges, claiming the prosecution is politically motivated. The situation continues to evolve, forming a critical moment in South Korean politics that may lead to another presidential election if he is removed from office.

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