Despite an unexpected twist, the high-profile case involving South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol continues, with prosecutors vowing to pursue his conviction for insurrection. Prosecutor General Shim Woo-jung stated that despite a court decision ordering Yoon’s release from prison, the prosecution will push forward with the case. The court ruled that Yoon’s detention during the trial was illegal due to the indictment filing being past the legally allowed expiry time, a point that Shim disagreed with. Yoon is facing allegations of leading an insurrection by declaring martial law on December 3, a decree that was lifted after about six hours. The decision to cancel Yoon’s arrest warrant drew mixed reactions, with his supporters welcoming his release. Yoon, who was impeached by parliament and remains suspended from power, could potentially be reinstated or permanently removed from office pending a decision by the Constitutional Court. If removed, a new presidential election will be held within 60 days. Yoon has maintained that his martial law declaration was necessary to address “anti-state” elements, a move that was swiftly rejected by parliament. The embattled leader, who became the first sitting president to be detained and indicted, was met with enthusiastic support as he returned to his official residence following his release from detention.
