South Korean President Proposed for Prosecution for Rebellion and Abuse of Power

South Korea's Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) on January 23 asked prosecutors 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 prosecutors because the CIO does not have the authority to indict the president.

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 Ministry of National Defense , while the prosecution also conducted its own investigation into Mr. Yoon.

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

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

The Constitutional Court of South Korea 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. Otherwise, he will be reinstated.