South Korean Justice Ministry Imposes Travel Ban on President Yoon Over Allegations of Rebellion and Other Charges
The South Korean Justice Ministry has imposed a travel ban on President Yoon Suk Yeol, amid an ongoing investigation into allegations of rebellion and other charges over his short-lived martial law declaration. The move comes as Yoon, who was re-elected in March, faces increasing pressure from opposition parties and the public over his handling of the crisis.
The martial law declaration, made last Tuesday, led to the deployment of special forces troops in the streets of Seoul and widespread protests. On Saturday, Yoon escaped an opposition-led effort to impeach him, but the opposition parties have vowed to issue a new impeachment motion against him this week.
The Justice Ministry’s ban on Yoon’s travel was announced by Bae Sang-up, a ministry official, during a parliamentary hearing. The ban was requested by police, prosecutors, and an anti-corruption agency as they expand their investigations into the circumstances surrounding Yoon’s declaration.
The move is significant, as a sitting South Korean president has immunity from prosecution while in office, but not from allegations of rebellion or treason. The Justice Ministry’s action suggests that Yoon’s position has become increasingly precarious, as he faces mounting pressure from all sides.
Meanwhile, the opposition Democratic Party has filed complaints with police against at least nine people, including Yoon and his former defense minister, over the rebellion allegations. The party has also suspended three top military commanders over their alleged involvement in imposing martial law.
The future of Yoon’s presidency remains uncertain, as the country grapples with the crisis. The governing party has announced that it will push for Yoon’s early and orderly exit from office, while maintaining that he will not be involved in state affairs, including foreign policy.
The drama surrounds Yoon’s decision to declare martial law, which he later reversed, citing the need to address corruption and violence in the country. His critics have accused him of using the move to crack down on political opponents and silence dissent. Yoon has apologized for the move, saying he will not seek to avoid legal or political responsibility for the decision.