Impeached South Korean leader dodges second grilling in coup investigation

An official from the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials (CIO), leading the investigation, said Yoon has consistently refused to speak with investigators, who prepared a questionnaire exceeding 200 pages.

The interrogation, scheduled to resume on Jan. 16, was canceled after Yoon’s legal team informed authorities of his absence.

One of Yoon’s lawyers, Kab Kyun, cited health issues as the reason for skipping the session, adding that further questioning would be “pointless” without providing additional details.

Yoon’s lawyers argue that the arrest warrant is illegal, claiming it was issued by a court outside its jurisdiction and that the group conducting the investigation lacked the necessary authority. The legal team has filed a complaint with the prosecution against the CIO chief and several police officials over the arrest warrant.

Authorities have 48 hours to interrogate the impeached president before either releasing him or seeking an extended detention order for up to 20 days. However, the timeline has been paused as Yoon’s lawyers petitioned the court to review the legality of the arrest.

Martial law attempt in South Korea

In early December 2024, Yoon Suk Yeol attempted to impose martial law in South Korea amid clashes with the opposition. The attempt failed, prompting the parliament to impeach him and accuse him of plotting a coup.

On Dec. 4, South Korean Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun resigned, apologizing for the unrest caused by Yoon’s attempt to declare martial law.

On Dec. 8, prosecutors arrested the former defense minister as part of a treason investigation. Yoon was also charged with treason.

On Jan. 3, 2025, investigators abandoned plans to arrest the impeached president after a prolonged standoff with his security detail.

Yoon was ultimately arrested on Jan. 15.