Public prosecutor files application for extension of Yoon's detention
24/01/2025
Yoon is currently being held at the Seoul Detention Center in Uiwang, south of Seoul.- Reuters Photo
SEOUL: Prosecutors on Friday filed an application for an extension of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's detention until early next month, according to authorities, as they seek to expedite investigations into the implementation of his shortened martial law, Yonhap News Agency reported.
The prosecution step comes a day after the Corruption Investigation Office for Senior Officials (CIOs) handed over the case to the prosecution as the agency does not have a legal mandate to prosecute a president.
The special prosecution team investigating the military law submitted an application to the Seoul Central Court to extend Yoon's detention until Feb 6, according to authorities. According to the law, a suspect can be detained for 10 days, with the possibility of an extension of another 10 days. Yoon was detained on Sunday.
If the court approves the application, the prosecution is expected to conduct face-to-face interrogation. However, it is still uncertain whether Yoon will agree to cooperate.
The prosecution is reportedly preparing charges if the court dismisses the extended application.
Law enforcement agencies are investigating Yoon over allegations that he was the mastermind behind the declaration of martial law on Dec 3 that sparked political unrest.
Yoon faces allegations of collaborating with then-Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun and other individuals to start riots by declaring martial law.
He also faces charges of abuse of power by sending troops to Parliament to prevent MPs from rejecting the decree.
Yoon is currently being held at the Seoul Detention Center in Uiwang, south of Seoul, while a Constitutional Court hearing is also underway to determine whether to uphold or dismiss his prosecution by Parliament.
If accepted, Yoon will be removed from office, causing a presidential election to be held within 60 days. If rejected, he will be reinstated to his original position.
