South Korean President Yoon Not to Attend Questioning Today: Legal Representatives
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Synopsis
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will not attend questioning regarding his failed martial law enforcement, as his lawyers confirmed. The CIO may take further action if he continues to resist. This unprecedented situation marks Yoon as the first sitting president formally arrested.
Key Takeaways
- Yoon Suk Yeol is under arrest as of Sunday.
- The CIO mandated Yoon's appearance for questioning.
- First Lady Kim Keon Hee is prohibited from visiting.
- The arrest marks a historic moment for South Korea.
- Yoon faces serious charges including insurrection.
Seoul, Jan 20 (NationPress) South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has been arrested, will not be present for additional questioning regarding his unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law on Monday, according to his legal representatives.
The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) has mandated Yoon to appear for questioning at 10 a.m. after he missed a prior appointment, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.
If Yoon continues to evade the summons, the CIO may take action to forcibly bring him in or visit him at the Seoul Detention Center, where he has been detained since last Wednesday.
Yoon was officially arrested early on Sunday following a court's decision to extend his detention due to fears he might tamper with evidence.
On the same day, the anti-corruption agency announced that Yoon would not be allowed to meet with visitors aside from his lawyers.
This decision by the CIO came after a court sanctioned a warrant for the formal arrest of the impeached President.
The CIO has communicated its ruling to the detention center in Uiwang, located just south of Seoul, highlighting concerns regarding evidence destruction.
This restriction will be in effect until Yoon faces indictment.
As a result of the CIO's actions, First Lady Kim Keon Hee and others close to Yoon will be prohibited from visiting him.
Legal analysts suggest that the CIO's decision is likely a preparatory measure in case Yoon's team seeks a court review of the validity of his detention.
With the issuance of the arrest warrant, Yoon has become the first sitting president to be officially detained.
The impeached leader is facing allegations of inciting insurrection and misusing his authority during the brief enforcement of martial law on December 3.
