South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Denies Impeachment Allegations

Suspended South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol refuted allegations during his impeachment hearing on Tuesday that he ordered lawmakers to be arrested while attempting to implement martial law.

The constitutional court is currently reviewing whether to permanently remove Yoon from office following last month’s parliamentary impeachment. A separate criminal investigation is also underway, accusing Yoon of leading an uprising.  

Yoon has been in custody since last week. During his transportation to the constitutional court, heavy security measures were in place, including police barricades and anti-riot measures, to prevent clashes among his supporters.

The impeachment centers on claims that on December 3, the night martial law was declared, Yoon ordered military commanders to forcibly remove lawmakers from parliament to prevent them from revoking the decree.

“I am a person who has lived with a firm belief in liberal democracy,” Yoon stated during the hearing. “As the constitutional court exists to safeguard the constitution, I ask that you thoroughly examine all aspects of this case.”

Military officers alleged that Yoon issued the order after lawmakers scaled fences and breached barricades to vote against his declaration of martial law.  

Yoon's legal team argued that the martial law decree was a “formality” and not intended for execution, citing threats from North Korea and “anti-state forces” as justification. Prosecutors, however, claimed the action was motivated by internal political unrest, not external threats.

The ongoing trial has further divided South Korea, with protests erupting nationwide.  

Outside the courtroom, hundreds of Yoon’s supporters, some wearing hats reading “Make Korea Free Again,” waved U.S. and South Korean flags. Many defended Yoon’s declaration of martial law as a measure to protect democracy.

“This is a conflict between people who pursue communism and people who pursue democracy,” said Wongeun Seong, a businessman attending the rally.

Tensions escalated as some demonstrators demanded the execution of opposition party leader Lee Jae Myung and the lead investigator prosecuting Yoon. The trial has also impacted South Korea’s economy, devaluing the won and prompting international credit rating agencies to issue warnings about declining consumer and corporate confidence.

Former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun, who allegedly advised Yoon on the martial law declaration, is expected to testify on Thursday. If six of the eight constitutional court justices uphold the impeachment, a presidential election will be held within 60 days.

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