Thu Feb 20 04:25:08 UTC 2025: ## South Korean President Faces Rebellion Charges, Lawyers Seek Release
**Seoul, South Korea** – South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol appeared in court Thursday for a preliminary hearing on charges of inciting a rebellion, following his controversial declaration of martial law in December. The hearing, held amid heightened security and protests from Yoon’s supporters, focused on witness testimonies and trial preparations.
Yoon’s lawyers filed a motion for his release from custody, where he’s been held since January 15th following a week-long standoff at his residence. His arrest marked the first time a sitting South Korean president has faced such action.
The charges stem from Yoon’s December 3rd declaration of martial law, which he claimed was necessary to protect South Korea from North Korea and “anti-state elements.” The decree, swiftly overturned by the National Assembly after six hours, sparked widespread protests.
Yoon’s actions led to his impeachment by the National Assembly on December 14th. A parallel impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court is nearing a decision on whether to permanently remove him from office. Should the impeachment be upheld, elections would be held within 60 days, leaving the country in a state of political limbo, according to Al Jazeera correspondent Rob McBride. The acting president, Choi Sang-mok, has yet to contact US President Donald Trump, highlighting the diplomatic uncertainty.
Along with Yoon, his defense minister, national police chief, and several military commanders have been arrested and charged with related offenses. If convicted of rebellion, Yoon faces the death penalty or life imprisonment. Despite the serious charges, Yoon continues to maintain his innocence and defy his critics. His supporters have staged protests against the legal proceedings.
First Piper 