South Korea’s Impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol Ordered Released Amid Insurrection Trial

In a pivotal ruling on March 7, 2025, the Seoul Central District Court directed the conditional release of Yoon Suk Yeol, who is embroiled in a trial concerning his controversial imposition of martial law last year. The court determined that the prolonged detention of the impeached president exceeded legal limits prior to his indictment a month earlier. However, his release is not immediate, as prosecutors may appeal the decision within a week. Yoon’s legal team argues that procedural violations occurred during his arrest and subsequent detention, leading to this court ruling.

Yoon's martial law announcement on December 3, aimed at countering opposition interference, culminated in the assembly's swift rejection, triggering protests and political upheaval. Following his impeachment on December 14, which the Constitutional Court is currently reviewing for legitimacy, Yoon has become the first South Korean president to face criminal charges while in office. This ongoing saga underscores a significant political turmoil in the nation.

Choe Sang-Hun is the lead reporter for The Times in Seoul, focusing on South and North Korean developments.