S-Korean law enforcement probing leader for ‘insurrection’

(MENAFN) South Korean Police have launched an investigation into President Yoon Suk Yeol after he briefly declared martial law, with authorities suspecting him of insurrection. Woo Jong-soo, head of the National Police Agency’s investigation unit, informed lawmakers on Thursday that a case has been opened against the president.

The controversy began on Tuesday when Yoon delivered an unexpected televised address, declaring emergency martial law, citing accusations that the opposition party, which he claimed had North Korean sympathies, was preparing a rebellion. However, the decree was swiftly revoked within hours after 190 lawmakers, who managed to bypass military blockades, voted to lift it. This led to widespread public protests against Yoon’s actions.

By Wednesday morning, Yoon rescinded the martial law declaration, less than six hours after imposing it. In response, the opposition Democratic Party, which holds a majority in parliament, announced plans to file an impeachment motion against Yoon. His party, the People Power Party (PPP), has vowed to block the motion, with PPP floor leader Choo Kyung-ho stating that all 108 members of his party would oppose the impeachment. The opposition intends to hold a vote on the matter on Saturday, and needs the support of just eight PPP members to succeed. If the impeachment is approved, Yoon will be suspended pending a Constitutional Court ruling, which could lead to a new election.

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