SURABAYA (Lenteratoday) – South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been released from prison just one day after the court overturned his arrest warrant; this decision has sparked significant political debate across the nation. Yoon left the detention center on Saturday, March 8, 2025, greeted by supporters, yet continues to face serious legal challenges.
Yoon is embroiled in criminal trials and impeachment proceedings related to his controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024. His legal team heralded the court's decision to overturn his arrest warrant as the first step toward restoring the rule of law, citing issues with both procedural and substantive grounds surrounding his detention. Yoon himself thanked the court for his release, referring to their judgment as brave and expressing appreciation for their efforts to rectify any injustices.
The Seoul Central District Court's ruling came after Yoon’s lawyers argued his detention was unlawful, primarily because prosecutors delayed filing charges against him for too long. The court concurred, emphasizing the necessity to uphold procedural transparency and clear doubts surrounding the legality of the investigation.
Despite his release, Yoon is still suspended from his official duties and faces severe accusations from prosecutors, alleging his martial law imposition was tantamount to rebellion. Should he be found guilty, the punishment could be as severe as death or life imprisonment.
The Constitutional Court is due to deliberate whether to reinstate or fully remove Yoon from the presidency, with their decision expected soon. On this day, supporters and opponents of Yoon both hit the streets, illustrating the divided sentiments within the populace. Approximately 55,000 of Yoon's supporters rallied across various districts of Seoul, calling for an end to the impeachment proceedings. Meanwhile, over 32,500 opponents staged demonstrations near the Constitutional Court, asserting the need for Yoon’s immediate dismissal.
A recent Gallup Korea poll revealed stark public opinion, showing 60% of respondents favored Yoon’s removal from office, indicating significant dissent against his actions.
Adding to the complexity, the Democratic Party, the main opposition group, criticized the prosecutor's handling of the case, accusing them of mismanagement and calling for immediate action from the Constitutional Court. They argue this situation has sent the country spiraling toward crisis.
Jeon Kwang-hoon, leader of the Sarang Jeil Church, organized the support rally, declaring, "The impeachment hearing is no longer relevant with Yoon's release." This rhetoric exemplifies the unity among Yoon’s supporters who hope for his return to power.
On the opposing side, the Democratic Party has taken strong stances, demanding the resignation of Attorney General Shim Woo-jung, whom they hold accountable for Yoon’s release following the court decision. Park Chan-dae, the Democratic Party's faction leader, argued, "Attorney General Shim freed Yoon Suk Yeol, the orchestrator of insurrection, after voluntarily relinquishing the chance to appeal." The opposition not only calls for his resignation but threatens to initiate impeachment proceedings against him if he remains unwilling to step down.
The People Power Party, Yoon's political faction, is now fervently pushing the Constitutional Court to overturn the impeachment, fearing societal backlash could follow if Yoon is removed yet proven innocent later.
The anticipated decision from the Constitutional Court could have far-reaching effects on the political climate of South Korea, with expectations for potential new elections if Yoon is overthrown. Legal analysts urge caution, mentioning the court's decision creates doubts about the integrity of the accusations against Yoon and raises unprecedented legal questions.
With public protests continuing and political tensions rising, South Korea watches closely as the fate of Yoon and the next steps for its government hang precariously upon the forthcoming court rulings. The actions taken now may redefine the future governmental integrity and civil rights within South Korea.