South Korean police on Thursday launched an investigation into treason charges against President Yoon Suk Yeol, who is facing an impeachment vote over his failed attempt to impose martial law.
According to the Yonhap news agency, a special police team is handling two complaints—one filed by the minor opposition Rebuilding Korea Party and the other by a group of 59 activists. The complaints also accuse former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, Army Chief of Staff Gen. Park An-su, and Interior Minister Lee Sang-min of treason and related offenses.
The investigation follows Yoon’s decision to impose martial law on Tuesday night, which he retracted hours later after it was rejected by the majority of lawmakers.
Additional complaints against Yoon have been filed with the prosecution and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials.
In response to the failed martial law attempt, six opposition parties, led by the Democratic Party, submitted an impeachment motion against Yoon and former Defense Minister Kim. While Kim has resigned, been barred from leaving the country, and relieved of his duties, the impeachment vote against Yoon is set for Saturday.
