Seoul: Former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, who was impeached, removed from office, and jailed for imposing martial law, has been released from prison. He was arrested at the end of January on charges related to the imposition of short-term martial law in the country. The Seoul Central District Court responded positively to his petition requesting release, issuing orders on Friday granting him freedom from prison life.

Yoon’s lawyers argued in court that his arrest was unlawful, stating that the investigation agency had detained him before officially registering his arrest. The court noted that questions remain about the legality of the investigation against Yoon and that answers need to be found. As President, Yoon imposed martial law for a brief period last year, even though there was no emergency situation in the country.

Lawmakers impeached Yoon, accusing him of rebellion against the nation by imposing martial law unnecessarily. The Constitutional Court is reviewing the impeachment case, and if it rules in Yoon’s favor, he may regain his position. If the court upholds the impeachment, Yoon will officially lose his office, and national elections must be held within two months to elect a new president. Yoon has now become the first South Korean president to be arrested while in office. According to the country’s constitution, a president has immunity from several cases, but there are no exemptions for charges like treason and rebellion, meaning he must face trial like any ordinary citizen. If convicted, he must serve the sentence.