South Korea's Justice Ministry has imposed an overseas travel ban on President Yoon Suk Yeol as investigations continue into allegations of rebellion and other charges related to his recent declaration of martial law. Yoon's decree on December 3 led to the deployment of special forces troops in Seoul, causing political turmoil and concern among diplomatic partners and neighboring countries.
Despite surviving an impeachment attempt on Saturday, opposition parties have pledged to submit a new motion against Yoon this week. The Justice Ministry has banned Yoon from leaving the country at the request of police, prosecutors, and an anti-corruption agency as they expand their inquiries into the martial law declaration.
Police have the authority to detain Yoon under certain conditions, although observers are skeptical due to potential clashes with his security service. While a sitting president in South Korea has immunity from prosecution, this does not apply to allegations of rebellion or treason.
Former President Park Geun-hye's case, where prosecutors were unable to search her office during her impeachment, serves as a precedent. Yoon has apologized for the martial law decree and stated that he will not evade legal or political responsibility.
Since taking office in 2022, Yoon has faced opposition from liberal rivals in parliament, leading to ongoing political tensions. The Defense Ministry has suspended top military commanders allegedly involved in the martial law imposition.
Yoon's party, the People Power Party, has opposed his impeachment, fearing a potential loss in the presidency to liberals in a by-election. The party's leader has indicated a desire for Yoon's orderly exit from office to minimize social disruption.
Despite calls for Yoon's impeachment, the Defense Ministry confirmed that he retains control of the military, a power explicitly reserved for the president according to the constitution.
