South Korean Court Approves Arrest Warrant for Ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol

A South Korean court on Thursday approved an arrest warrant for impeached former President Yoon Suk Yeol, escalating a political crisis that has gripped the country since his brief declaration of martial law last month. Authorities said the warrant was issued over concerns that Yoon could destroy evidence or attempt to flee while investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the controversial move.

Yoon was detained after being questioned in connection with the short-lived martial law declaration, which sparked widespread protests and ultimately led to his removal from office. The decision by the court marks a dramatic turn in a case that has deeply divided South Korea and intensified scrutiny of the former leader’s actions.

The martial law declaration, which lasted only a short time, triggered public outrage and raised alarm among lawmakers, civil society groups, and legal experts. His ouster followed mounting pressure as demonstrations spread across the country and political institutions moved to contain the fallout.

With the arrest warrant now approved, investigators are expected to press ahead with a broader inquiry into the events that led to one of the most serious constitutional crises in recent South Korean history.