South Korea's Yoon freed but faces trial

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been released from detention following a court ruling that deemed his arrest illegal due to procedural errors. Despite his release, Yoon continues to face serious legal challenges, including an ongoing criminal trial for insurrection and an impending Constitutional Court decision on his impeachment. ​

Yoon's legal troubles began in December 2024 when he declared martial law, a move that was quickly overturned by parliament. This action led to his impeachment and subsequent arrest in January 2025 on charges of leading an insurrection. His arrest marked the first time a sitting South Korean president was detained while in office. ​

The Seoul Central District Court recently revoked Yoon's detention warrant, citing procedural errors in his indictment, including miscalculations of detention periods and improper division of responsibilities among investigative bodies. However, prosecutors plan to continue pursuing his conviction for insurrection. ​

In addition to the criminal trial, the Constitutional Court is deliberating on Yoon's impeachment. If the court upholds the impeachment, Yoon will be permanently removed from office, triggering a presidential election within 60 days. The court's decision is expected soon, and authorities are preparing for potential public demonstrations from both supporters and opponents of Yoon. ​

Yoon maintains that his declaration of martial law was intended to eliminate "anti-state" elements and protect the nation. His release from detention has elicited mixed reactions, reflecting the deep political polarization in South Korea. ​

As legal proceedings continue, South Korea remains on edge, awaiting the outcomes that will shape its political future.