South Korea’s Yoon defies second summons over martial law decree

Wed Dec 25 05:33:33 UTC 2024: ## Impeached South Korean President Skips Second Questioning on Martial Law Declaration

**SEOUL, South Korea** – Impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol has again refused to appear for questioning by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), defying a summons for a second time this week. Yoon, suspended from his duties since December 14th following his impeachment by the National Assembly, was ordered to appear Wednesday morning to answer questions regarding his controversial, short-lived declaration of martial law on December 4th. He is suspected of insurrection and abuse of power.

Yoon’s previous refusal to cooperate with prosecutors on December 15th adds to the escalating political crisis gripping South Korea. His declaration of martial law, ostensibly aimed at combating “anti-state forces,” sparked widespread condemnation and plunged the nation into its deepest political turmoil in years.

The Constitutional Court is currently reviewing Yoon’s impeachment, with a public hearing scheduled for December 27th. A final decision, which could take up to six months, will determine whether Yoon is removed from office. New elections would be held within two months of a confirmed removal.

Despite facing impeachment and investigation, Yoon maintains his actions were legal and has vowed to “fairly confront” the allegations. His continued defiance of legal summonses further intensifies the uncertainty surrounding South Korea’s political future.