South Korean Special Prosecution Files July 6 Detention Request for Ex-President Yoon Over Martial Law, Abuse of Power Charges

South Korea's special prosecution team has filed a request to detain former President Yoon Suk Yeol on charges related to his declaration of martial law in December 2024. The special counsel, led by Cho Eun-seok, alleges abuse of power, obstruction of justice, and other offenses connected to the short-lived martial law imposition. This follows multiple summonses and investigations by the special prosecution team, which had previously sought an arrest warrant for Yoon in late June 2025; however, the court had rejected that warrant and instead ordered Yoon to appear for questioning. Yoon has repeatedly refused to enter the investigation room, which the special prosecution considers equivalent to non-compliance.

The latest detention request was submitted on July 6, 2025, shortly after Yoon's second questioning by the special counsel. The investigation includes questioning of several former government and military officials involved in the martial law declaration. The special prosecution continues to pursue legal actions amid ongoing investigations into the alleged insurrection and related charges.