South Korea prepares to arrest former Prime Minister over coup investigation
South Korean authorities are reportedly on the verge of issuing an official arrest warrant for former Prime Minister Han Deok-su as part of their ongoing investigation into an alleged attempt to orchestrate a coup.
Special prosecutors handling the case have submitted a petition to the court requesting his detention, accusing him of aiding former President Yoon Seok-youl in declaring martial law and making false testimonies.
Reuters reports, citing prosecutor Pak Ji-yoon, that if approved, Han Deok-su could face arrest before the trial proceedings even commence.
The former prime minister is already detained in connection with other legal issues; however, the new charges increase the likelihood of his arrest.
Earlier this year, he was removed from his position as head of the conservative party due to his attempt to declare martial law — an action that triggered a political crisis and intensified the tensions between various branches of government.
Sources suggest that if detained, Han Deok-su might face additional charges, including obstructing judicial investigation and abuse of power, which would complicate his legal situation and might have repercussions for his political career and national stability.
Moreover, ex-President Yoon Seok-youl has been hit with new accusations related to obstructing justice, abusing his official authority for personal gain, and blocking court orders for arrest.
These developments have sparked widespread media attention and raised questions about the future stability of South Korea’s political landscape.