By The South Asia Times

SEOUL -  South Korea – Investigators on Friday sought a formal warrant for the arrest of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his controversial failed attempt to impose martial law last month.

The request, filed by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials, was submitted to the Seoul Western District Court just two days after Yoon was apprehended at his residence and taken into custody for questioning, according to Yonhap News Agency.

The investigation centers on Yoon's actions regarding the imposition of martial law, which critics argue was mishandled and led to significant political and social turmoil. Authorities have been probing whether Yoon's decisions during this period were in violation of constitutional norms and could constitute abuse of power.

The decision to file for an arrest warrant follows Yoon’s detention earlier this week, where he was questioned by investigators in connection with the martial law episode.

The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials, tasked with investigating allegations involving top government figures, has called for a thorough examination of Yoon’s role in the controversial events.

The arrest request comes amid heightened political tension in South Korea, with public opinion sharply divided over Yoon's handling of the crisis. If granted, the arrest warrant would mark a significant escalation in the investigation into the former president's conduct while in office.

Yoon, who was impeached last year, has denied any wrongdoing and defended his actions as necessary for national security. His legal team is expected to challenge the request, citing procedural concerns and asserting that Yoon’s actions were in line with his duties as president during a period of crisis.

As the legal process unfolds, the political ramifications are expected to reverberate across the country, potentially influencing South Korea’s ongoing debates surrounding executive power and accountability