Ex-South Korea President Yoon Jailed Again Amid Martial Law Conspiracy Probe

Summary

• Ex-President Yoon jailed again over martial law conspiracy.
• Court fears evidence tampering; grants new detention warrant.
• Yoon faces insurrection charges—possible life or death sentence.
• Held in solitary cell without AC during severe heatwave.
• Skipped trial citing health issues; over 1,000 supporters protested.
• Investigation fast-tracked by new President Lee’s special counsel team.

Fresh Warrant, Harsh Conditions

SEOUL, July 10 – South Korea’s former president Yoon Suk Yeol has returned to jail after a Seoul court approved a new detention warrant tied to allegations that he attempted to declare martial law during his final days in office.

The court cited concerns that Yoon might destroy or tamper with evidence. Now back in the Seoul Detention Center—where he was held for 52 days earlier this year—Yoon is confined to a 10-square-meter solitary cell with no air conditioning. He sleeps on a floor mattress and relies on a fan that shuts off at night, while the country faces an intense heatwave.

The conservative ex-leader faces serious charges of insurrection, which could result in life imprisonment or the death penalty. Despite being scheduled to attend a trial hearing Thursday morning, Yoon was absent, with his legal team citing health issues.

Investigation Expands as Protests Erupt

The probe has intensified under new President Lee Jae Myung, who appointed a special counsel team of over 200 prosecutors. They are investigating whether Yoon not only sought to impose martial law but also inflamed tensions with North Korea for political advantage.

Further questioning is scheduled for Friday. His wife and lawyers were formally notified of his renewed detention.

More than 1,000 of Yoon’s supporters rallied outside the courthouse on Wednesday, chanting his name in 35°C heat. His legal team claims the detention is politically motivated.

National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik welcomed the court’s move, saying it is a vital step toward upholding democracy.

“No one is above the law,” he stated.