Dec 9, 2024 - Politics & Policy

South Korean president hit with travel ban after martial law mayhem

Avery Lotz

A protester holds a cardboard cutout of the face of South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol that reads "Leader of insurgents." — A protester holding a cardboard reading "Leader of insurgents" on an image depicting the face of South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul on Dec. 8. Photo: PHILIP FONG/AFP via Getty Images

South Korea's Justice Ministry imposed a travel ban on embattled President Yoon Suk Yeol Monday as he remains under investigation for his since-overturned martial law declaration, multiple outlets reported.

The big picture: Yoon's surprise decree sparked a flurry of protests and catapulted the U.S. ally into political turmoil. The unpopular leader faces an impeachment vote and a probe over potential rebellion charges.

Prosecutors already detained former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun Sunday, Yonhap News Agency reported. Kim reportedly recommended martial law to Yoon.
Presidential immunity in South Korea does not cover insurrection charges, per a translation of the country's constitution.

Driving the news: A Justice Ministry official said at a legislative hearing that Yoon was banned from leaving the country after requests by law enforcement, prosecutors and an anti-corruption agency pending ongoing investigations, the Associated Press reported.

A senior National Police Agency officer told local media that police can detain the president if certain conditions are met, per the AP's report.

Catch up quick: Yoon temporarily avoided impeachment Saturday after most members of his party boycotted a vote in the National Assembly, but his political future remains fraught.

His favorability was already sagging before his martial law declaration, and he regularly faced roadblocks in the opposition-controlled parliament.
In his declaration placing the country under short-lived martial law, Yoon accused his political foes of anti-state activities. But his controversial move was swiftly condemned across the political spectrum.
Within just hours of his declaration and troops' descent on the parliament complex, the 190 lawmakers who breached the heavily guarded legislature blocked his order.

What he's saying: Yoon apologized for his power grab Saturday in a televised address, saying it was "born out desperation," per the New York Times' translation.

"I feel deep regret for this, and I offer my sincere apology to my fellow citizens who must have been greatly surprised," he continued. "I will not evade legal and political responsibility in relation to this declaration of martial law."
Yoon also assured there would not be a second declaration of martial law.

What we're watching: If Yoon resigns or is removed from office, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would take over presidential duties.

Go deeper: How Trump's economic team will think about South Korea

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South Korean president hit with travel ban after martial law mayhem

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