South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol walked out of a detention center on Saturday after prosecutors opted not to appeal a court ruling that canceled his arrest warrant on insurrection charges. Despite his release, Yoon, 64, remains suspended, with his criminal and impeachment trials ongoing over his brief declaration of martial law on December 3.
The Seoul Central District Court annulled the arrest warrant on Friday, citing procedural concerns and the timing of Yoon’s indictment. "I appreciate the court’s courage in correcting this injustice," Yoon stated. Stepping out of his car in a dark suit without a tie, he waved to cheering supporters holding South Korean and U.S. flags.
His legal team called the ruling a "turning point in restoring the rule of law," asserting that Yoon’s detention was legally flawed. Prosecutors have not issued a statement. Meanwhile, the main opposition Democratic Party condemned the decision, warning it could deepen the political crisis and urging the Constitutional Court to expedite Yoon’s removal.
Public opinion remains divided. A Gallup Korea poll revealed that 60% of respondents favor Yoon’s removal, while 35% oppose it. Yonhap News reported that 55,000 Yoon supporters rallied in Seoul, while 32,500 demonstrators protested against him near the Constitutional Court.
Yoon, the first South Korean president arrested while in office, had been held at the Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang since January 15. His impeachment trial now moves to a decisive stage, with the Constitutional Court expected to rule soon on whether he will be reinstated or permanently removed from office.