South Korea's Impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol Indicted on Rebellion Charges
South Korean prosecutors have officially indicted impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on charges of rebellion related to his controversial declaration of martial law in December. This unprecedented action could lead to severe penalties, including the death penalty or life imprisonment if Yoon is convicted.
The indictment comes after Yoon's decree on December 3, which created a political crisis and drew substantial criticism. Yoon's move momentarily allowed him to deploy troops and police to parliament, but the lawmakers quickly voted against it, forcing an end to the martial law that lasted only six hours.
Yoon is the first sitting South Korean president to face such charges. His defense team condemned the indictment, claiming it represents a politically motivated attack aimed at facilitating his removal from office. The Constitutional Court is also deliberating whether to formally dismiss him or reinstate his presidency.
Yoon has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that his actions were intended to maintain public order amidst what he claimed was legislative obstruction from the opposition. Investigations are ongoing, complicating South Korea's already polarized political landscape.
Additionally, Yoon remains in custody and will be transported to a Seoul court for trial hearings expected to last approximately six months. As public support divides, Yoon's case continues to attract major attention both locally and internationally.
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