South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was suspended over his failed martial law declaration, has been ordered to appear before the country’s corruption watchdog on Christmas Day after missing a previous summons this week. Yoon, who was stripped of his duties by parliament following the December 3 martial law attempt, faces impeachment and criminal charges, including insurrection, which could result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty.
Investigations into Yoon’s actions are being conducted by prosecutors and a joint team of police, defense ministry, and anti-corruption officials. The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) has scheduled the hearing for 10:00 am on December 25, marking a historic moment if Yoon complies, as he would become the first sitting South Korean president to appear before an investigative agency.
Yoon’s failure to attend the previous hearing on Wednesday has raised concerns. Prosecutors had warned of possible arrest but have since referred the case to the CIO, which is also considering an arrest warrant. The Constitutional Court is reviewing his impeachment, with proceedings underway to determine whether it will be upheld within six months.
The court has struggled to serve documents related to the martial law declaration, leading them to explore alternative options for addressing the case.
