Yoon Suk Yeol fights arrest in Seoul court over martial law scandal detention

Former President Yoon Suk Yeol appeared before the Seoul Central District Court on Friday for a hearing about his detention. Judges reviewed whether his arrest remains legal after prosecutors charged him with attempting to declare martial law last December. The court will announce its decision within 24 hours of the session that concluded at 4:15 pm. Yoon arrived at 9 am and went directly into a holding cell without speaking to reporters. His lawyers argued he poses no threat and deserves release due to health problems.

Defense attorneys presented a detailed case claiming prosecutors lack sufficient evidence for the charges. They stated Yoon cannot participate in legal proceedings because of medical issues. Special prosecutor Park Ji-young countered these arguments with extensive documentation. The prosecution team submitted evidence showing Yoon has adequate mobility based on detention center records. They maintained that his continued imprisonment prevents witness intimidation and evidence destruction.

Yoon personally addressed the court at the hearing's conclusion to request his freedom. He was rearrested in July after spending months outside custody following his initial release in March. The case stems from his controversial martial law declaration on December 3, 2024.