Ex-President Yoon Skips Special Counsel Questioning Amid Martial Law Probe

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol skipped a scheduled questioning session on Tuesday by a special prosecutor investigating his controversial December 2024 attempt to declare martial law. Yoon cited the need to prepare for an upcoming court hearing on Thursday, where he faces insurrection charges, as his reason for delaying cooperation—despite risking arrest.

Yoon, who was impeached by parliament and removed from office by the Constitutional Court in April 2025, has described the investigation as a politically motivated "witch hunt." Through his legal team, the former prosecutor-turned-president argued that some of the special counsel’s methods were illegal and violated his rights as a defendant. His lawyers indicated that the earliest he could appear for further questioning is July 5.

The special counsel’s office, appointed in June to intensify prior investigations by state prosecutors and police, has not commented officially on Yoon’s absence. However, local media reported that another summons is expected this week. Yoon’s initial questioning on Saturday was cut short for several hours after he objected to procedural issues.

Legal analysts suggest the special prosecutor may pursue criminal code action, likely signaling a potential arrest. This latest standoff marks an unprecedented showdown between a former president and an independent investigative body in South Korea.

Yoon’s political motives have drawn scrutiny, even from within his conservative People Power Party. Critics highlight his prior role in the 2017 prosecution of ex-President Park Geun-hye, questioning the irony of his current predicament. Two additional special prosecutors are also examining allegations involving Yoon’s wife and claims that his presidential office obstructed a probe into a marine’s death in 2023.

Yoon’s continued resistance fuels political tension in a nation still navigating the legacy of its authoritarian past.