News
“Hands off!”: Mass protests erupt across U.S. against Trump’s leadership
2025/04/06 18:00
Protesters gathered in more than a thousand locations across the United States in what has become the largest show of opposition since President Trump's inauguration. More than 150 civil groups united on Saturday for rallies under the banner of the "Hands Off" movement, voicing strong objections to his administration's agenda. Key points of contention included federal downsizing, immigrant deportations, and proposed cuts to healthcare programs. Solidarity demonstrations also broke out in cities around the world, including London, Paris, and Berlin, just days after Trump announced sweeping reciprocal tariffs targeting nearly every nation.
Martial law incident shows resilience of S. Korean democracy: NYT
2025/04/06 18:00
The New York Times has assessed that the past four months have demonstrated the resilience of South Korean democracy. The paper noted that the rise and fall of now-former President Yoon Suk Yeol revealed a "vulnerability, but also a resilience" in South Korean democracy, adding that the public was "ready to fight for it." It highlighted the events of December 3rd, when troops sent to the National Assembly hesitated as citizens stood in their way. It also cited scholars who warned that if martial law can occur in a country seen as "an exemplary case of democratization in Asia," then it could happen elsewhere, too. It went on to emphasize that South Korea's democracy was "fought for" through decades of resistance against authoritarian rule.
Pro-and anti-impeachment rallies continue throughout weekend
2025/04/06 18:00
On the first weekend after the leader was removed from office, public rallies stayed divided. Shin Ha-young takes a look. Protests both in support and against the impeachment continued throughout the weekend even after Friday's final verdict. Despite the rainy weather on Saturday, people gathered near Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. Those who had called for former President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment looked cheerful, holding signs that said, "Democracy has won." Another rally celebrating the impeachment was held near City Hall Station. Participants cheered, saying the people had won, and called for the removal of what they described as insurrectionist forces. "Turning weapons on the people is unforgivable. Shouldn't those behind the rebellion, and everyone involved, be investigated and punished?" People who opposed the president's impeachment also took to the streets. They held signs reading "Invoking the rights to resist" and chanted, "The impeachment is a fraud and invalid". Some said they couldn't accept the Court's decision and called for Yoon to return to office. "We'll keep standing up for President Yoon Suk Yeol and the rule of law in the Republic of Korea." Police set up barricades around the Gwanghwamun area to prevent clashes between people for and against the impeachment. As of Saturday evening the Korean National Police Agency lowered Seoul's emergency response from the second highest level, which allows for 50 percent mobilization of police forces, to a level where officers are allowed to take leave, but must remain on standby and ready to respond if needed. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.
Presidential Office quietly dismantling as Yoon Suk Yeol Administration ends
2025/04/06 18:00
As the Constitutional Court has removed President Yoon Suk Yeol from power, the now-former leader has to vacate his office and residence. Our correspondent Oh Soo-young tells us more. Silence takes over the Presidential Office in Seoul's Yongsan-gu District Following the Constitutional Court's ruling on Friday removing President Yoon Suk Yeol, over his martial law declaration last December, the nation's top office is no longer the center of power and governance. A regular Sunday meeting of senior presidential secretaries did not take place this weekend, despite the meetings having continued throughout Yoon's impeachment trial. The secretaries had in fact submitted their mass resignation to Acting President Han Duck-soo, who turned them down and requested they remain in their positions. Still, the air of resignation is pervasive. After Friday's ruling, the phoenix flag the symbol of the head of state was taken down from the main flagpole. The large digital display showing images of Yoon has also faded to black. The Presidential Office's website was taken offline on Saturday, and Yoon's social media pages have been updated to reflect his change of status. Meanwhile, state authorities will begin transferring official documents to the Presidential Archives, which is required by law at the end of every administration. The Interior Ministry said Sunday, on-site inspections will begin next week on 28 venues including the Presidential Office, the National Security Council, the Presidential Security Service, and relevant advisory bodies. Also, packing up,. the former leader is preparing to soon move out of the official residence. It was initially expected Yoon and his wife would return to their high-rise apartment across the river, as early as Saturday, given that former President Park Geun-hye left the presidential quarters 56 hours after her impeachment was upheld in 2017. However, a source told Arirang News the arrangements will take some time and ruled out a move the same weekend. Yoon's believed to be considering other venues further away from the city center, due to his his security arrangements as well as his thirteen pets. The Presidential Security Service also said it has not received any detailed plans so far, but will follow legal protocols once the relocation is confirmed. By law, the PSS provides basic personal protection for all even ousted presidents once they return to civilian life. "The Presidential Office has not issued any official statements following Friday's fateful ruling, retreating from the public eye. As such, the dismantling of the Yoon Administration quietly ensues. Oh Soo-young, Arirang News."
DP and PPP race to top begins with impeachment leaving vacancy at presidency
2025/04/06 12:00
With the top office in the country left vacant, the clock is ticking for an early election. Rival parties look to be moving quickly. Our political correspondent Kim Do-yeon takes a closer look. The upcoming presidential election could mark the final chapter in the political turmoil triggered by the martial law declaration and the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. With the vote set to take place in less than 60 days, rival parties are moving quickly to prepare. On Sunday, the Democratic Party of Korea is expected to announce the rules for its presidential primary, with a press briefing scheduled around lunchtime. Meanwhile, party chair Lee Jae-myung -widely seen as the likely candidate -is expected to step down from his leadership role to enter the race. Running as party chair could raise concerns about bias in the primary process. While he has yet to make an official declaration, Lee has consistently led recent polls as the most favored candidate for the presidency. Local media anticipate his formal announcement will follow once the presidential election date is officially confirmed. In addition, politicians outside Lee's faction are also preparing to enter the race, with official announcements expected as early as Monday. Meanwhile, the People Power Party is scheduled to hold a full-floor meeting on Sunday afternoon to discuss its approach to the upcoming presidential election. Key agenda items include setting the rules for the party's primary and addressing the fallout from the impeachment of its former president. Unlike its rival, the PPP does not have a clear frontrunner, with some local media outlets expecting as many as 10 contenders to enter the race. Among them is Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo, who finished second to Yoon Suk Yeol in the party's 2022 presidential primary and has hinted at another run. Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon is also frequently mentioned as a potential candidate. The most high-profile name, however, is former party chair Han Dong-hoon -once a close confidant of Yoon, who later distanced himself from the former president and publicly supported impeachment following the martial law declaration. As for the election, Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo is expected to set the date during the upcoming Cabinet meeting on Tuesday. With the legal deadline set at 60 days, June 3rd is widely seen as the most likely date, as it would mark exactly 60 days since Yoon's impeachment on April 4th. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.
Martial law incident shows resilience of S. Korean democracy: NYT
2025/04/06 12:00
The New York Times has assessed that the past four months have demonstrated the resilience of South Korean democracy. The paper noted that the rise and fall of now-former President Yoon Suk Yeol revealed a "vulnerability, but also a resilience" in South Korean democracy, adding that the public was "ready to fight for it." It highlighted the events of December 3rd, when troops sent to the National Assembly hesitated as citizens stood in their way. It also cited scholars who warned that if martial law can occur in a country seen as "an exemplary case of democratization in Asia," then it could happen elsewhere, too. It went on to emphasize that South Korea's democracy was "fought for" through decades of resistance against authoritarian rule.
Pro-and anti-impeachment rallies continue throughout weekend
2025/04/06 12:00
On the first weekend after the leader was removed from office, public rallies largely stayed divided. Shin Ha-young takes a look. Protests both in support and against the impeachment continued throughout the weekend even after Friday's final verdict. Despite the rainy weather on Saturday, people gathered near Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul. Those who had called for former President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment looked cheerful, holding signs that said, "Democracy has won." Another rally celebrating the impeachment was held near City Hall Station. Participants cheered, saying the people had won, and called for the removal of what they described as insurrectionist forces. "Turning weapons on the people is unforgivable. Shouldn't those behind the rebellion, and everyone involved, be investigated and punished?" People who opposed the president's impeachment also took to the streets. They held signs reading "Invoking the rights to resist" and chanted, "The impeachment is a fraud and invalid". Some said they couldn't accept the Court's decision and called for Yoon to return to office. "We'll keep standing up for President Yoon Suk Yeol and the rule of law in the Republic of Korea." Police set up barricades around the Gwanghwamun area to prevent clashes between people for and against the impeachment. As of Saturday evening the Korean National Police Agency lowered Seoul's emergency response from the second highest level, which allows for 50 percent mobilization of police forces, to a level where officers are allowed to take leave, but must remain on standby and ready to respond if needed. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.
Live: Presidential Office quietly dismantling as Yoon Suk Yeol Administration ends
2025/04/06 12:00
As the Constitutional Court removed President Yoon Suk Yeol from power on Friday, the now former leader has to vacate his office and residence. Our correspondent Oh Soo-young is at the former President's office. Q1. Soo-young, what's the atmosphere like there today on this second day since the Court's ruling? Hi Jungmin, the Presidential Office remains enveloped in silence. Usually, Sundays were also buzzing with activity but today, it looks like only a handful of working-level staff are present. Notably, the regular Sunday meeting of senior secretaries, which had continued even during Yoon's suspension, will not be held today. This follows a mass resignation submitted by senior aides including Chief-of-Staff Chung Jin-suk and National Security Advisor Shin Won-sik. Acting President Han Duck-soo turned them down, requesting that they remain in their positions during this transitional period to play supportive roles. Still, the air of resignation is pervasive. Soon after Friday's ruling, the phoenix flag the symbol of the head of state was taken down from the main flagpole. The large digital display in the basement hallway of the building, that showed images of Yoon at major events, now just shows a black screen. The Presidential Office's official website has been unavailable since Saturday, while Yoon's personal social media profiles have been updated to reflect his change of status from the President of the Republic of Korea, to the 20th President of the Republic of Korea. Meanwhile, state authorities will begin transferring official documents to the Presidential Archives, which is required under law at the end of every administration. The Interior Ministry said Sunday, on-site inspections will begin next week on 28 venues including the Presidential Office, the National Security Council, the Presidential Security Service, and relevant advisory bodies. The Presidential Office has not issued any official statements following Friday's fateful ruling, as it retreats quietly without ceremony. Q2. Sooyoung, there's a lot of attention now on what comes next, especially regarding former President Yoon's departure from the official residence. What do we know about those plans? There's no timeline yet for former President Yoon's relocation from the official residence, where he stayed throughout the weekend. It was initially expected the Yoon and his wife would move out as early as Saturday to return to their high-rise apartment across the river. However, there's been no sign of such movement nor indication it will happen soon. According to an official I spoke with, there's still much to sort through and organize, making a move unlikely this weekend. The Presidential Security Service also told media on Sunday that there are no detailed plans just yet. By law, the PSS provides basic personal protection for former presidents, even those ousted by impeachment. Yoon is said to be considering other venues further away from the city center, considering his security arrangements and to minimise disturbances for neighbours. His thirteen pets are reportedly also being factored into the decision. Thus, it seems Yoon will move out later compared to former President Park Geun-hye, who left the presidential quarters two days after her impeachment was upheld in 2017. I see. Well, do keep us updated on any developments.
Trump's 10% tariff takes effect; worst week for U.S. stocks, global markets in panic
2025/04/05 18:00
U.S. President Donald Trump's 10% baseline tariff on imports from many countries took effect this afternoon, intensifying the ongoing trade war. China has already retaliated with its own tariffs, sending global markets into turmoil. Our Kim Jung-sil reports. U.S. President Donald Trump's initial 10% "baseline" tariff on imports took effect at 12:01 AM Eastern Time on Saturday. Only a few nations, including Canada and Mexico, are exempt. The 10% baseline tariff can be seen as the 'first phase' of the tariffs President Trump announced on April 2nd, which he called 'Liberation Day' for America. From April 9th, the second phase of tariffs will come into effect, targeting countries President Trump has labeled as 'the worst offenders,' including South Korea, which will face a 25% tariff. For China, the tariff rate will rise to 54%. In response, China announced on Friday that it would impose a reciprocal 34% tariff on all U.S. imports, set to take effect on April 10th. The latest tariff announcements have shaken global markets. In the U.S., all three major stock indexes plummeted, with the Dow Jones falling by 5.5% and the S&P 500 dropping nearly 6%, capping the worst week since 2020. "It's an economic Armageddon that was unleashed by Trump. And the tariff war has begun, and we believe this could set tech stocks and the tech industry in the U.S. back potentially a decade." Analysts warn that the economic consequences of the trade war could be severe, particularly for U.S. tech companies reliant on Asian supply chains. Professor Yang Jun-sok, an economics expert at The Catholic University of Korea, says China is directly challenging President Trump, arguing that once tariffs exceed a certain level, China faces little risk, but this has rattled American investors. "It'll be a big question whether the European Union and Canada will join China in retaliation. If they do, then President Trump may have no choice but to back down from his high tariff policy." As stock markets continue to tumble, all eyes are on whether China's latest move will prompt President Trump to reconsider his aggressive tariff policies. Kim Jung-sil, Arirang News.
Acting chief justice thanks police, journalists for ensuring safety after ruling
2025/04/05 18:00
Acting chief justice of the Constitutional Court, Moon Hyung-bae, thanked South Korean police for ensuring the court's safety. According to the court on Saturday, Moon also thanked journalists for diligently covering the ruling and ensuring the impeachment trial proceeded smoothly. He further recognized constitutional researchers and court staff for their role in the trial's successful conclusion. The eight justices who delivered the final verdict on Friday will be on leave until the 6th.
N. Korea reports Yoon's dismissal without comment
2025/04/05 18:00
And a day after Friday's ruling, North Korea reported on the ouster of former President Yoon, noting that the dismissal was the result of a unanimous vote over his brief martial law order. The North's state media made no commentary on Saturday, instead citing headlines from major foreign news outlets. By contrast, in 2017, it took just about two hours for the North to report on former President Park Geun-hye's dismissal. Experts say the regime appears to be keeping its distance from the South, as leader Kim Jong-un has described inter-Korean relations as "hostile."
Acting President holds NSC meeting after Yoon's removal, calls for readiness against N. Korean provocations
2025/04/05 18:00
Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo urged all foreign and security ministries to unite and safeguard national security and public safety. Convening the National Security Council just hours after President Yoon's removal from office, Han warned that North Korea may try to exploit the political situation through provocations and propaganda. He stressed the need to maintain a watertight state of readiness. Han also called for continued cooperation with the Trump administration, especially in diplomacy and security. On trade issues, including Washington's reciprocal tariffs, he urged a coordinated, whole-of-government response with support from the private sector.
S. Korea's partners support impeachment ruling
2025/04/05 18:00
Following Friday's verdict, countries around the world expressed support in South Korea's democratic system, adding they're looking forward to working with the next administration — whoever it may be. Our Kim Do-yeon reports. Following the Constitutional Court's decision to uphold President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment, the U.S. State Department responded to inquiries from South Korean media, stating that it respects the ruling. It also reaffirmed its commitment to the ROK-U.S. alliance, saying it looks forward to continued close cooperation. Meanwhile, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba was also asked about the impeachment ruling. He said, "Under any circumstances, the government will pursue this as a key policy task, based on the recognition that close cooperation between South Korea and Japan is extremely important." This comes as Seoul and Tokyo mark the 60th anniversary of reestablishing diplomatic ties this year. In light of the occasion, local media have also reported that a summit is expected to take place later this year, once South Korea's next president is elected. The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to South Korea as a strategic partner, emphasizing its respect for the country's Constitution and Constitution and democratic values. In an official statement, the EU highlighted the importance of maintaining strong ties based on shared principles. Meanwhile, the United Nations praised South Korea's democratic maturity. During a routine press briefing, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said Secretary-General António Guterres expressed full confidence in South Korea. According to the spokesperson, the Secretary-General "has full confidence in the Republic of Korea's commitment to democratic principles, a peaceful and stable path forward, and the country's institutions." Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.
Political standoff between rival parties deepens ahead of early presidential election
2025/04/05 18:00
South Korea has officially entered early presidential election mode, with a new president required to be elected within 60 days. Rival parties in parliament remain deeply divided as the race begins. Our political correspondent Shin Ha-young has more. It's been one day since the Constitutional Court removed now-former President Yoon Suk Yeol from office, and the political standoff between rival parties is already deepening ahead of the early presidential election. The People Power Party has called on the Democratic Party to take responsibility, following the Constitutional Court's call for greater tolerance and restraint in politics. A PPP spokesperson noted on Saturday that the Court criticized parliament for operating unilaterally. In Friday's impeachment ruling, the Court said the National Assembly should have respected minority views and sought compromise with the government. The PPP emphasized that South Korea can only move forward by restoring parliamentary democracy. It also pledged to help stabilize the country in the wake of the recent turmoil caused by the martial law declaration and the president's impeachment. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party criticized the People Power Party, saying it should reflect on its actions and sever ties with those responsible for the insurrection before entering the early presidential race. A DP spokesperson said on Saturday it was "shocking" that the PPP is already focused on winning the election following President Yoon's removal. The party also urged Acting President Han Duck-soo to promptly set the election date, saying it should be announced no later than Tuesday of next week. The date for South Korea's 21st presidential election is widely expected to be confirmed at Tuesday's Cabinet meeting. Acting President Han Duck-soo held a phone call on Friday with National Election Commission chief Roh Tae-ak to discuss preparations for the upcoming vote. The two reportedly agreed on June 3rd as the most likely election date. "With an early election now confirmed, rival parties are expected to begin preparations for their primaries as soon as next week. Shin Ha-young, Arirang News."
Court removes President Yoon Suk Yeol over Dec. 3 martial law in unanimous 22-minute ruling
2025/04/05 12:00
As of 11:22 AM on Friday, the Constitutional Court of Korea officially ousted now former President Yoon Suk Yeol over his martial law declaration, which the court judged as unconstitutional. Our Oh Soo-young reports. "The current time is 11:22 AM. Ruling: President Yoon Suk Yeol is hereby removed from office." Four months after President Yoon Suk Yeol's December 3rd martial law,. the Constitutional Court on Friday issued a unanimous decision to oust the nation's leader, immediately stripping him of his presidency. All eight members of the bench decided to uphold the National Assembly's motion to remove Yoon from power, declaring his martial law declaration on December third last year a grave violation of the Constitution and democratic principles, and a betrayal of public trust. Beginning at 11 AM, Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae delivered the collective decision, and reasoning, which showed the full bench upheld all five grounds for impeachment presented by the Assembly on how Yoon's martial law had disrupted the country's constitutional order. Yoon had made the unprecedented effort of defending himself in his impeachment trial alongside his lawyers. He argued that martial law had been his executive right under the Constitution, which allows the measure to be triggered in times of national emergency, with the need to maintain public order. Yoon had cited the opposition-led National Assembly's legislative abuse, budget cuts, and excessive impeachment motions against his administration as amounting to a state of national emergency. He also raised concerns of election fraud and concluded that he'd declared martial law as a warning or appeal to the nation. The Court rejected Yoon's arguments as unacceptable and insufficient. "By declaring martial law in violation of the Constitution and relevant laws, the respondent re-enacted the historical abuse of emergency powers, throwing citizens into a state of shock and causing disruption across all areas of society, economy, politics, and diplomacy." The Court found there to be no genuine emergency nor severe disruption of public order to justify Yoon's imposition of the controversial measure. While acknowledging intense political tensions and the opposition's impeachment motions, the Court stressed that Yoon had the democratic tools to resolve political disputes without unconstitutional actions. Also, Yoon's martial law did not meet procedural requirements, as he did not sufficiently consult the Cabinet, nor did he notify parliament about his martial law proclamation. Second, the bench said Yoon deployed military and police forces illegally to obstruct the National Assembly, infringing on lawmakers’ constitutional rights and undermining democratic governance. Third, Yoon's martial law proclamation banned political activities, infringing citizens' basic rights. Also, the former president ordered unwarranted searches of the National Election Commission, breaching its independence. Fifth, Yoon infringed upon judicial independence by attempting to locate former senior judges for potential arrest. The ruling comes 111 days after the court case began, with the National Assembly's impeachment vote. 11 trial hearings, and 16 witness testimonies were held. The deliberation took a record 38일, three times longer than previous presidential impeachment cases. Yoon is now South Korea's second elected leader to be ousted by impeachment, after former President Park Geun-hye was removed from office in 2017. A historic day of reckoning for South Korean democracy --the verdict stresses presidential accountability and the urgent need for bipartisan compromise in a deeply divided political climate. As one chapter closes, South Korea moves forward, still testing and reinforcing the strength of its democratic foundations. Oh Sooyoung, Arirang News.
U.S. committed to working with acting President Han
2025/04/05 12:00
The U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to working with South Korea's Acting President, Han Duck-soo, stressing its "ironclad" security commitment to Seoul. A State Department spokesperson said in response to a question from Yonhap News Agency on Friday that the U.S. respects South Korea's democratic institutions, its legal processes, and the Constitutional Court's decision. The European Union also expressed its respect for the Constitution and legal proceedings in South Korea, reiterating its close strategic partnership with Seoul.
N. Korea reports Yoon's dismissal without comment
2025/04/05 12:00
And a day after Friday's ruling, North Korea reported on the ouster of former President Yoon, noting that the dismissal was the result of a unanimous vote over his brief martial law order. The North's state media made no commentary on Saturday, instead citing headlines from major foreign news outlets. By contrast, in 2017, it took just about two hours for the North to report on former President Park Geun-hye's dismissal. Experts say the regime appears to be keeping its distance from the South, as leader Kim Jong-un has described inter-Korean relations as "hostile."
Acting President holds NSC meeting after Yoon's removal, calls for readiness against N. Korean provocations
2025/04/05 12:00
Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo urged all foreign and security ministries to unite and safeguard national security and public safety. Convening the National Security Council just hours after President Yoon's removal from office, Han warned that North Korea may try to exploit the political situation through provocations and propaganda. He stressed the need to maintain a watertight state of readiness. Han also called for continued cooperation with the Trump administration, especially in diplomacy and security. On trade issues, including Washington's reciprocal tariffs, he urged a coordinated, whole-of-government response with support from the private sector.
Protests both for and against impeachment to continue on Saturday
2025/04/05 12:00
Despite Friday's final verdict, protests both in support and against the impeachment are continuing today. Those for the impeachment are celebrating and wrapping up their protests on Saturday, while those against the impeachment are now entering a new phase of protesting against the Court's ruling. An organization that's for the impeachment said there will be a gathering at around 4 PM near Gyeongbokgung Palace, with 100-thousand people expected. An anti-impeachment organization said they will be gathering starting 1 PM at Gwanghwamun Square with around 200-thousand people expected.
Yoon apologizes for not living up to expectations as he is stripped of presidency
2025/04/05 12:00
The political fate of the prosecutor general-turned-president has ended in disgrace, with the remainder of his term cut short. The former President sent out a brief message after the ruling. Our Kim Do-yeon has the details. Shortly after the Constitutional Court upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, Yoon laid out a brief message through his legal representatives. While he didn't directly mention the Constitutional Court's ruling, he thanked his supporters and said, "I am sincerely grateful for your unwavering support and encouragement, even when I fell short. I deeply regret not being able to live up to your hopes and expectations ." Meanwhile media caught the moment the phoenix flag, the symbol of South Korea's president, came down from the Yongsan Presidential Office building, signaling the end of President Yoon's 1,060-day presidency. "The Office will be supporting Acting President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. But at around 3:30 PM, the Presidential Office released a written statement saying that the Chief of Staff, the Chief of Staff for Policy, the National Security Advisor — along with all senior level secretaries — expressed their intent to resign." The Acting President, however, rejected the resignations a few hours later, saying that the government needs to be in full operation. As for Yoon, however, he has now become a civilian. While he is still at the Presidential Residence and will have to leave, there are no clear rules for that, so we will have to wait. Former president Park Geun-hye left the former presidential Blue House two days after her ruling. Yoon is expected to return to his home in the Seocho-gu District of Seoul. From this point on, he will not be treated as a former president due to Friday's ruling. This means no presidential pension or a spot at the National Cemetery. The Presidential Security Service will no longer be fully protecting him, but because he has state confidential information, there will be a downsized security team to at least guarantee his safety for at least five years and ten at the maximum. This also ties into his criminal trial. It'll now be much easier for the prosecutors to call Yoon in for further questioning, as he won't have an official security system around him. That wasn't the case until now, as we had seen some conflict between the investigators for the criminal case and the Presidential Security Service. In South Korea's legal system, if Yoon is convicted of leading an insurrection, he could face life in prison or the death penalty. Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.