South Korea's Former President Yoon Faces Detention Hearing Over Martial Law Probe

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol walked into the Seoul Central District Court today, facing a big moment that could land him behind bars. Authorities are digging into his shocking attempt to declare martial law last December, and prosecutors are pushing hard to have him detained, accusing him of overstepping his power and meddling with justice. It’s a messy chapter in South Korea’s already heated political scene.

Yoon got the boot from office in April when the Constitutional Court backed his impeachment over the martial law stunt. He’s also in hot water for allegedly using presidential guards to avoid arrest earlier this year. The investigation kicked into high gear after President Lee Jae Myung, a liberal, took over in June. They’re also looking into whether Yoon stirred up trouble with North Korea, which could’ve hurt the country. Prosecutors say he’s a flight risk and might try to sway witnesses, so they want him locked up.

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Showing up in a sharp navy suit and red tie, Yoon stayed tight-lipped as reporters fired questions. His legal team is fighting back, saying the detention push is “unfair” and lacks solid evidence. Outside the courthouse, about 100 loyal supporters waved signs saying “Yoon Again” and chanted his name, while police kept things under control with dozens of buses nearby.

Yoon’s martial law call, meant to tackle “anti-state” groups, stunned South Korea—a country that’s proud of its democracy after shaking off military rule years ago. The plan fell apart fast when lawmakers pushed back, leading to his impeachment and a serious criminal trial for insurrection, which could mean life in prison. He was arrested once before in January but got out after 52 days on a technicality.

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The court’s decision, expected late tonight or early tomorrow, will decide if Yoon heads back to the Seoul Detention Center. Whatever happens, it’s likely to crank up the tension in a country already grappling with a major political storm.