Key Takeaways:

• Impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol faces rebellion charges following a controversial martial law decree.
• The indictment could result in life imprisonment or death penalty if convicted, marking a significant moment in South Korean politics.
• Separate judicial proceedings are underway to determine Yoon's status as president, amidst ongoing public protests.

SEOUL — In a historic turn of events, South Korean prosecutors have indicted the country's President Yoon Suk-yeol on rebellion charges. This unprecedented move comes less than two weeks after he was detained for his short-lived martial law decree issued on December 3. The charges carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment or even the death penalty if he is convicted. Yoon's actions have not only led to his impeachment but have also plunged the nation into a state of political unrest, shaking confidence in its financial markets and harming its international standing.

The Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office has accused Yoon of orchestrating a rebellion during the martial law period, claiming it aimed to disrupt the constitutional order. Yoon's defense team reacted vehemently, alleging that this indictment is a politically charged attempt to unseat him, referring to it as "the worst decision" made by prosecutors. They assert that a declaration of martial law does not equate to rebellion.

After declaring martial law, which lasted only six hours and led to a chaotic response in the National Assembly, Yoon faces significant legal challenges. While he has presidential immunity from most criminal prosecutions, it does not extend to allegations of rebellion or treason. The military and police commanded by Yoon during the martial law episode have already seen numerous arrests and indictments among their ranks, indicating a broader crackdown on actions related to the decree.

As Yoon remains incarcerated, he will be brought to a Seoul court for hearings that are expected to last six months. The political environment is charged with protests from supporters and opponents alike, often devolving into violence. Following the approval of an arrest warrant to extend Yoon's detention, downtown Seoul witnessed riots led by his supporters, resulting in injuries to several police officers and multiple arrests.

In addition to the rebellion indictment, Yoon faces another significant challenge with a separate proceeding at the Constitutional Court, which must decide by June whether to formally dismiss or reinstate him as president. Observers speculate that a ruling may come before the deadline, precipitating further political turmoil and potentially leading to a national election within two months if Yoon is removed from office.

Public sentiment remains divided. The ruling People Power Party warns of legal repercussions for what they term a "wrong indictment," while the opposition Democratic Party heralds Yoon's indictment as "the beginning of punishment for the ringleader of a rebellion." Political analysts suggest that the ongoing strife might deepen the country's divisions and hinder its efforts to stabilize politically.

For further reading on this developing story, refer to the original articles from SCMP, LA Times, AP News, and SCMP.