Justice Minister Deems Release of Impeached President Yoon “Unjust”

Acting Justice Minister Kim Seok-woo expressed his dissatisfaction on Wednesday with the court’s decision to release impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol from jail. Kim called the decision “unjust,” signaling a potential challenge.

Yoon, who had been detained since January on charges related to his failed attempt to impose martial law, was released on Saturday. The court ruled that he could stand trial without detention, citing concerns about the investigation into the charges.

Kim voiced his concerns during a meeting with lawmakers, saying he believes the court’s decision needs to be rectified. He also emphasized the importance of questioning the reasoning behind the release, which came after the Seoul Central District Court allowed Yoon’s request to cancel his arrest.

Prosecutor General Shim Woo-jung decided not to appeal the court’s decision. The prosecution said that the indictment occurred after the detention period had expired, making an immediate appeal difficult. Kim noted that appealing the decision would have likely violated constitutional principles.

“The prosecution’s decision to not immediately appeal the ruling is based on the belief that it could be unconstitutional,” Kim explained. He also stated that the prosecution cannot make a judgment on whether to extend the detention before a justice’s decision.

Chun Dae-yup, chief of the National Court Administration, also raised concerns over the decision to release Yoon. He argued that the prosecution should have filed an immediate appeal to a higher court. The prosecution has until Friday to do so, and it is reviewing Chun’s remarks.

As the controversy continues, Kim pledged to challenge the court’s decision in Yoon’s main criminal trial. The legal battle over Yoon’s detention is far from over, and the issue may be addressed in the coming days.