Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court for the first time on Saturday for a hearing that will determine whether to extend his detention as investigations continue into his failed attempt to impose martial law.
Yoon, who claims his arrest is unlawful, sparked national chaos on December 3 by attempting to suspend civilian rule, citing threats from “anti-state elements.”
Despite the unsuccessful six-hour martial law attempt, which was quickly voted down by lawmakers, Yoon was impeached and detained in a dramatic dawn raid on Wednesday after resisting arrest for weeks.
He remains in custody while the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) probes his actions, including charges of insurrection, which could lead to a life sentence or even execution if convicted.
Supporters of the former president rallied outside the court, calling for his release as the hearing progressed. Yoon’s legal team has expressed his intention to attend the hearing with hopes of restoring his honor.
The judge will decide whether to approve a request to extend Yoon’s detention by an additional 20 days, allowing prosecutors more time to formalize charges.
This case comes amid growing opposition pressure, with the Democratic Party celebrating the arrest as a step toward restoring legal and constitutional order.
A parallel investigation into his impeachment at the Constitutional Court also continues.
