On March 8, President Yoon Suk Yeol was released after spending 52 days in detention, becoming the first sitting South Korean president to be tried while in custody. The release followed a court's decision to cancel his arrest, and the prosecution announced that they would not file an immediate appeal against the court's ruling.
The Ministry of Justice received the release order via fax and initiated the procedure to release President Yoon from the Seoul Detention Center. As a result, Yoon returned to his residence 41 days after being arrested and 52 days after his detention on January 15.
The head of the Supreme Prosecutors' Office, along with other senior prosecutors, unanimously decided not to challenge the court's decision and instructed Yoon’s release. Initially, there had been some resistance from the special investigation team, but after internal discussions, they accepted the decision.
At around 5:40 PM on the same day, President Yoon was seen leaving the detention center. He bowed several times to his supporters, expressing his gratitude.
Before his release, Yoon shared his thoughts through his legal team, thanking the Seoul Central District Court for its courage and decision in correcting the injustice. He also expressed deep appreciation to the citizens who supported him despite the cold weather, particularly the younger generation.
Yoon added, “I was deeply saddened to hear about the tragic news of someone who took their own life in protest against my detention. I offer my condolences,” and further stated his prayers for the swift release of others who remain imprisoned in similar situations. He also urged those engaging in hunger strikes to end their protests, acknowledging their message and calling for the movement to cease.
On March 7, the Seoul Central District Court accepted President Yoon’s petition to cancel his arrest, ruling that his detention was unjust. The ruling was welcomed by the ruling party, with a spokesperson stating that it was a wise decision by the prosecution, even if delayed.
The spokesperson also criticized the unlawful investigation led by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) which initiated Yoon’s arrest. The spokesperson argued that the CIO's actions, including their attempt to illegally arrest the president, would be remembered as a dark chapter in South Korea’s constitutional history.
In contrast, the Democratic Party condemned the court's decision, with Chief Spokesperson Cho Seoung Lae calling the release of President Yoon a "surrender" by the prosecution. He accused Yoon of continuing to act as though he were not a defendant in a treason case, pointing to his defiant gestures as he was greeted by supporters.
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