South Korea's impeached president has refused further questioning after being detained by anti-corruption officials over his declaration of martial law last month. President Yoon Suk Yeol exercised his right to remain silent during more than 10 hours of questioning. Investigators are expected to move to place him under arrest in the coming days.
The anti-corruption agency, in a joint investigation with the police and military, is looking into whether Yoon's martial law declaration amounted to attempted rebellion. Yoon's lawyers argue that the detention warrant is invalid and have requested his release.
Yoon's supporters gathered near the court, calling for his release. Yoon's attempt to declare martial law on Dec. 3 led to a political crisis, with his powers suspended after being impeached on charges of rebellion. The Constitutional Court is deliberating on his removal from office.
Yoon resisted attempts to investigate his actions, citing protection of locations linked to military secrets. He was finally detained after a raid on the presidential compound. In a video message, Yoon criticized the investigation, stating that the 'rule of law has completely collapsed.'
If a court grants a warrant for Yoon's arrest, investigators can extend his detention to 20 days. If indicted on charges of rebellion and abuse of power, Yoon could face the death penalty or life imprisonment if convicted under South Korean law.
