Yoon Suk-yeol appears for first special prosecutor probe over martial law justification order

Former President Yoon Suk-yeol appeared before the special prosecutor's team on June 6 for the first time to be investigated for his alleged role in the December 3 emergency martial law period. Yoon arrived at the special prosecutor's office in Gwacheon, Gyeonggi Province, around 9:50 a.m., 101 days after the team's launch on February 25.

The special prosecutor's team is investigating Yoon on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of rights. Yoon's side requested a non-public appearance, so his arrival was not disclosed to the public. He is accused of instructing the National Security Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to send messages to allied nations, including the United States, asserting the legitimacy of the emergency martial law shortly after its declaration.

In addition to this investigation, Yoon is scheduled to appear before the special prosecutor's team again on June 13. This second appearance will focus on charges of leading a rebellion under the military criminal code. The military code defines rebellion as "making an armed uprising by conspiracy," with the leader facing a potential death sentence. Those who participate in or lead a rebellion face penalties of death, life imprisonment, or imprisonment of seven years or more.

The investigation into the former president marks a significant development in the inquiry into the events surrounding the declaration of martial law. The charges carry severe implications, particularly the accusation of attempting to legitimize the martial law internationally while it was in effect.