A South Korean court has overturned the arrest warrant of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, clearing the way for his release after weeks of detention.
Yoon was arrested in January on insurrection charges following his brief declaration of martial law on December 3.
Despite the ruling, Yoon will not be freed immediately, as prosecutors still have the option to appeal. His lawyer confirmed that legal proceedings could delay his release.
Yoon’s declaration of martial law, which he claimed was necessary to eliminate “anti-state” threats, was swiftly rescinded after lawmakers rejected it. The decision led to public outcry and political turmoil in Seoul.
His legal team argued that the original arrest warrant, issued on January 19, was invalid due to procedural errors in the prosecution’s request. The court’s latest decision supports their claim, though the final outcome remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, Yoon’s supporters have staged rallies near the presidential residence, demanding his release. The case has further deepened political divisions in South Korea, with debates ongoing about the legality of his actions and the future of his presidency.