South Korea’s former president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has been released from prison after a Seoul court decided to cancel his arrest. This decision allows him to face trial for rebellion without being detained. Yoon’s release comes a day after his arrest was initially set to take place.
As he left the detention center, Yoon expressed gratitude to his supporters, bowing deeply and raising his fists in a show of solidarity. The crowd cheered for him, waving South Korean and U.S. flags in support. In a statement released through his lawyers, Yoon thanked the Seoul Central District Court for what he called a correction of illegality regarding his arrest.
Yoon is facing serious charges tied to his declaration of martial law on December 3. This controversial move was an attempt to break through legislative gridlock by sending troops to the National Assembly and election offices. The situation quickly escalated into a political crisis, marking one of the most significant challenges for South Korea since its democratic reforms in the late 1980s.
While thanking his supporters, Yoon also urged those on hunger strike against his impeachment to end their protest. The crisis began when the opposition-dominated assembly voted to impeach him on December 14, following the martial law declaration. The Constitutional Court is currently reviewing whether to officially dismiss or reinstate him.
If the court upholds his impeachment, South Korea will hold a national election within two months. The political landscape remains tense as the nation watches closely how this situation unfolds.