South Korean authorities imposed additional travel bans on top officials Tuesday, according to Yonhap News Agency, as investigations intensify following President Yoon Suk Yeol’s controversial attempt to impose martial law.
This comes a day after President Yoon himself was barred from leaving the country. Meanwhile, his political party is reportedly drafting a “resignation roadmap” that could see him step down as early as February or March, paving the way for fresh elections.
A week ago, Yoon suspended civilian rule and deployed special forces and helicopters to parliament in an unprecedented move. However, lawmakers swiftly forced him to revoke the decree, a shocking event in a nation long considered a stable democracy.
Authorities are now investigating Yoon and a close circle of allies—many of whom share ties from their school days—on allegations of insurrection.
On Tuesday, Yonhap reported that Cho Ji-ho, commissioner general of the Korean National Police Agency, and two senior police officials joined the list of those banned from international travel.
Others already under travel restrictions include former defense and interior ministers, martial law commander General Park An-su, and defense counterintelligence head Yeo In-hyung.
Former Defense Minister Faces Arrest
Kim Yong-hyun, the former defense minister, was detained on Sunday, and prosecutors formally requested an arrest warrant for him on Monday. He faces charges of “engaging in critical duties during an insurrection” and “abuse of authority to obstruct the exercise of rights.”
A Seoul court is set to rule on the warrant later Tuesday, marking the first judicial decision in the unfolding martial law crisis.
In a statement through his lawyers, Kim took full responsibility, saying, “All responsibility for this situation lies solely with me.” He issued a public apology, emphasizing that his subordinates were simply following his orders.
Protests and Political Turmoil
President Yoon narrowly avoided impeachment in a parliamentary vote on Saturday as tens of thousands of citizens staged protests nationwide, braving freezing temperatures to demand his resignation.
Candlelight vigils continued Monday, with thousands gathering outside parliament in Seoul. The impeachment motion failed after lawmakers from Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP) walked out, depriving the motion of the two-thirds majority needed to pass.
The PPP, however, has since indicated plans for a transition of power. Reports suggest the party is working on a resignation plan to avoid another impeachment attempt, which the opposition plans to introduce on Saturday.
The proposed timelines under discussion include Yoon stepping down in February with elections in April or resigning in March for a May vote. The opposition, meanwhile, has criticized the PPP’s approach as a “second coup.”
The political crisis marks a critical moment for South Korea, with the nation’s stability and democratic institutions under intense scrutiny.
