South Korean President proposed to be prosecuted for rebellion and abuse of power

South Korea's Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) on January 23 asked the prosecution to indict impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol on charges of leading a rebellion and abuse of power, according to Yonhap news agency. The case was transferred to the prosecution because the CIO does not have the authority to prosecute the president.

Mr. Yoon Suk Yeol at the impeachment trial on January 21 in Seoul

Mr. Yoon faces charges of colluding with then-Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun and others to rebel by declaring martial law on December 3, 2024. He is accused of abusing his power by sending troops to the National Assembly to prevent lawmakers from voting to lift martial law, obstructing others from exercising their rights.

The CIO was established in 2021 as an independent anti-corruption agency tasked with investigating high-ranking officials such as the president and his family. The CIO led a joint investigation with the police and the Defense Ministry , while the prosecution also conducted its own investigation into Mr. Yoon.

However, with limited investigative and prosecutorial powers, the CIO does not have the power to prosecute the president and must refer the case to the prosecutor's office for further action. Mr. Yoon's lawyers have repeatedly argued that the CIO does not have the power to investigate the sedition charge and take up the case.

What's happening inside the detention center of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol?

Mr. Yoon Suk Yeol is being held at the Seoul Detention Center in Uiwang City, south of the capital. Prosecutors have 11 days to decide on indictment.

The Constitutional Court is also considering his impeachment over the martial law case. If the court upholds the National Assembly's decision, Mr. Yoon will be removed from office. If not, he will be reinstated.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tong-thong-han-quoc-bi-de-nghi-truy-to-toi-noi-loan-lam-quyen-185250123100226382.htm