South Korean prosecutors have indicted impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on charges of being the ‘ringleader of an insurrection’ following his brief attempt to declare martial law on December 3. The move, which lasted only six hours before being overturned by lawmakers, led to political chaos and Yoon’s impeachment.

He became the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested after a standoff at his residence, where his security team resisted attempts to detain him.

Prosecutors announced the formal indictment, which includes detention, meaning Yoon will remain in jail until his trial, expected within six months.

The indictment follows a court decision to reject prosecutors' attempts to extend his arrest warrant.

Prosecutors cited a risk of evidence destruction as the reason for his continued detention.

The charge of insurrection is not covered by presidential immunity, making Yoon liable for prosecution.

Opposition lawmakers have called for accountability not only for those involved in the insurrection but also for those accused of spreading misinformation.

Yoon’s legal team, without presenting evidence, has justified the martial law declaration by pointing to alleged election fraud and legislative gridlock.

Supporters of Yoon have echoed the rhetoric of US President Donald Trump’s 'stop the steal' movement.

In addition to the criminal charges, Yoon faces Constitutional Court hearings to determine whether his impeachment will be upheld, which could lead to a presidential election if the court rules against him.