South Korean prosecutors gave on Tuesday President Jun Sok-yol until Saturday, December 21 to appear for questioning in connection with his failed attempt to declare martial law in the country. Otherwise, an arrest warrant may be issued for him, reports TASR according to the agencies Jonhap and AFP. On Saturday, the Parliament voted on the impeachment proposal (constitutional lawsuit) jthe South Korean president, who unexpectedly declared martial law almost two weeks ago.
Jun declared martial law on December 3 in an unannounced speech in which he accused the opposition of anti-state activities. A few hours later, the MPs voted to abolish martial law. The opposition has accused Jun of rebellion, saying the president can only declare martial law in South Korea during a state of war or similar emergency situations, and even in those cases he has no right to suspend parliament.
The declaration of martial law sparked protests in South Korea. Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of the capital, demanding Jun’s dismissal and detention. The deposed South Korean president and a circle of his closest associates could face life in prison or even the death penalty if convicted.writes AFP. Jun is currently banned from leaving the country.
On Monday, South Korea’s Constitutional Court began impeachment proceedings against the president over his failed attempt to declare martial law. The court also announced that the first preliminary hearing will take place on December 27. The Constitutional Court has 180 days to decide whether to confirm the impeachment or restore Juno’s presidential powers. In case of his dismissal, early elections must be held within two months. The acting president is currently Prime Minister Han Tok-su.
