Jailed Former South Korean President Yoon Refuses Questioning, Citing Health Issues

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declined to participate in questioning by investigators on Friday, resisting efforts to bring him from his detention cell near Seoul. According to assistant special counsel Oh Jeong-hee, Yoon removed his prison uniform and lay on the floor, refusing to comply with the court-issued detention warrant. > "Without wearing his prison uniform, the suspect lay down on the floor and strongly resisted his detention," Oh said during a televised briefing.

Investigators, led by special counsel Min Joong-ki, were acting on allegations involving Yoon and his wife, Kim Keon Hee, including claims of improper influence over the ruling party's 2022 election nominations. Min's team refrained from using force, citing safety concerns, but notified Yoon that the warrant would be executed in the future if necessary. Oh urged the former president to cooperate, emphasizing the importance of equal application of the law.

Yoon's legal representatives argued that he was unable to attend questioning or his trial due to health issues, including cardiovascular and eye problems, and referenced a hospital's assessment that he risks blindness without treatment. Defense lawyer Yu Jeong-hwa criticized the special counsel for publicly discussing Yoon's condition and attire, describing it as damaging to his dignity.

Yoon was removed from office in April following the imposition of martial law on December 3, which was quickly overturned by lawmakers. He was subsequently impeached, arrested, and indicted on charges related to rebellion and other alleged offenses. The investigation continues as authorities seek Yoon's cooperation.