Former prime minister and ex-finance minister barred from leaving the country
South Korean authorities have banned former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo and former Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok from traveling abroad as part of an ongoing investigation into ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol’s controversial martial law declaration in December, according to a report by Yonhap News Agency.
The travel restrictions, which took effect in mid-May, were confirmed by police on Tuesday. Both officials are being investigated as suspects in an insurrection case linked to Yoon’s failed attempt to subvert democratic rule.
Investigation centers on Yoon’s martial law bid
Yoon, who was impeached and removed from office last month, faces trial on insurrection charges following his December 3 declaration of martial law—a move that saw armed soldiers deployed to parliament. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment or even the death penalty.
This marks a dramatic fall from grace for the former leader, who would become the third South Korean president found guilty of insurrection. The two previous convictions were tied to military leaders involved in a 1979 coup.
Political turmoil ahead of pivotal election
The travel bans come just a week before South Koreans head to the polls to elect Yoon’s successor, ending months of political instability triggered by the martial law crisis.
Han Duck-soo, a career bureaucrat, had been considered a potential candidate to replace Yoon. However, the ruling People Power Party (PPP) faced backlash this month after attempting to replace former Labor Minister Kim Moon-soo’s candidacy with Han—a move it later retracted under public pressure.
Legal and political fallout continues
As the investigation unfolds, the case underscores South Korea’s turbulent political landscape and the legal consequences for leaders who overstep constitutional boundaries. With Yoon’s trial underway and key figures barred from leaving the country, the nation watches closely for further developments in this high-stakes political drama.