South Korean Prosecutors Push for Yoon Suk Yeol’s Conviction Despite Court Ruling

South Korean prosecutors remain determined to convict President Yoon Suk Yeol for insurrection, despite a court’s decision to release him from detention. Prosecutor General Shim Woo-jung stated on Monday that while he respects the ruling, he disagrees with the court’s assessment that the indictment was filed beyond the legally allowed timeframe.

Yoon has been on trial since February 20 for allegedly declaring martial law on December 3 in an attempt to suppress "anti-state" elements. The decree was lifted after six hours, but parliament rejected it within hours, leading to his impeachment and suspension from office. His defense argued the case was politically motivated, and on Friday, the Seoul Central District Court ruled his detention unlawful, leading to his release on Saturday after nearly two months behind bars.

Despite the ruling, prosecutors are determined to pursue the case. "We will present our arguments during the trial and do everything possible to uphold the indictment," Shim told reporters. While the prosecution chose not to appeal the ruling, citing past Constitutional Court precedents, they remain committed to seeking Yoon’s conviction.

The embattled leader was met by cheering supporters upon his release and return to his official residence. His fate now rests with the Constitutional Court, which will soon decide whether to overturn his impeachment or permanently remove him from office. If removed, South Korea will hold a new presidential election within 60 days.

Yoon’s dramatic arrest on January 15 marked the first time a sitting South Korean president was detained and indicted. His controversial martial law decision continues to divide public opinion, fueling intense political and legal battles in the country.