Former South Korean President Re-Arrested, Wife Also Under Investigation

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been re-arrested following a failed attempt to impose martial law. According to reports, the 65-year-old former leader will not attend his trial, citing health concerns. He is currently being held at the Seoul Detention Centre. If convicted of insurrection, Yoon could face life in prison or the death penalty.

Simultaneously, Yoon’s wife, Kim Keon-hee, is also facing investigation on charges including stock manipulation, election interference, and bribery. Investigators have conducted searches related to these allegations, focusing on the former first lady’s alleged involvement in candidate nominations for parliamentary and general elections. Yoon’s impeachment occurred in December, and his initial arrest was followed by release on technical grounds before this re-arrest. The political crisis was sparked by Yoon’s attempt to subvert civilian government by sending armed soldiers to parliament. Charges include fabricating a martial law declaration and instructing actions to deny his intentions, as well as ordering the deletion of call records and allegedly provoking North Korea.