South Korean President Under Fire Faces Additional Questioning and Impeachment Trial

South Korea is facing its most severe political turmoil in decades as President Yoon Suk Yeol undergoes questioning over allegations of insurrection. The anti-corruption agency resumed its investigation on Thursday, while the Constitutional Court held a second hearing on Yoon's impeachment trial.

The crisis began with Yoon’s brief attempt to impose martial law on December 3, which was rejected by parliament. Yoon was arrested early Wednesday at his villa in Seoul, becoming the first sitting president in South Korea’s history to face such action. Authorities cited the need to avoid violence as Yoon turned himself in, though he claims the investigation and arrest warrant are illegal.

The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) is leading the probe, with investigators reportedly preparing a 200-page questionnaire. Yoon, who had avoided cooperation, is now detained at the Seoul Detention Centre, where he spent the night in solitary confinement. His lawyers argue that the arrest warrant is invalid due to jurisdictional issues and a lack of legal mandate for the investigation team.

Authorities have 48 hours to decide whether to seek a warrant for Yoon's extended detention or release him. Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court will determine whether to permanently remove Yoon from office after his impeachment by parliament on December 14.

Public opinion appears divided, with polls showing support for impeachment but growing sympathy among Yoon’s core supporters following his arrest. The unfolding situation has placed South Korea under intense political and legal scrutiny, further deepening the nation’s crisis.

This unprecedented case could reshape South Korea's political landscape, as both legal and public challenges to Yoon’s presidency continue to escalate.