A South Korean court has issued a warrant against the country’s sitting President, Yoon Suk Yeol, for imposing a short-lived martial law earlier this month, The Korean Herald reported. Yoon has become the first sitting South Korean President to face a possible arrest.

Arrest of President for Failed Military Rule

The warrant against President Yoon was issued today (Tuesday) from the Seoul Western District Court for charges of leading and organizing the martial law declaration and abuse of power. It was served after Yoon failed to appear before a joint investigation committee three times.

The authorities have 48 hours following the court order to take Yoon into custody for questioning.

President Yoon suddenly appeared on national television on December 3, 2024, to declare the imposition of martial law throughout the country, with justification to curb “anti-national sentiments” within the political elite. Although the military took control of some institutions, or at least appeared to, the martial law only lasted for a few hours as the country’s lawmakers rushed to vote against it.

Under South Korean law, a majority of lawmakers’ votes against the military rule can nullify it.