SEOUL: In a dramatic turn of events, South Korea's suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol has once again defied a summons to appear for questioning, marking his third consecutive refusal within a mere two weeks.

On Sunday, December 29, he was ordered to appear at 10 am (9 am, Singapore time), but chose not to comply, escalating tensions surrounding his political fate. This refusal comes on the heels of an absence at a hearing last Wednesday, where he also did not provide an explanation for his decision to skip out.

As the pressure mounts, many are beginning to wonder about the implications of Yoon's actions on South Korea's political stability.

Stripped of his presidential duties by parliament on December 14, Yoon finds himself at the center of a political maelstrom following a controversial declaration of martial law that has plunged the nation into one of its gravest crises in decades.

Amidst this turmoil, Yoon faces serious charges including impeachment and insurrection, with potential penalties that could include life imprisonment or, in a shocking twist, the death penalty—raising eyebrows and concerns among South Korea's democratic allies globally.

The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) confirmed Yoon's absence, stating: 'President Yoon Suk Yeol did not appear at the CIO as ordered.'

The office further revealed that the Joint Investigation Headquarters would deliberate on future actions, hinting at the possibility of a fourth summons or even an arrest warrant to ensure Yoon's appearance.

Yoon is under investigation not only by prosecutors but also by a collaborative team that includes police, defense ministry personnel, and anti-corruption officials.

Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court is reviewing the impeachment motion passed by parliament, with a ruling expected within six months. Should the court uphold the impeachment, South Korea could see a new presidential by-election within 60 days.

This unfolding saga eerily mirrors the situation of former president Park Geun-hye, who faced her own impeachment under similar circumstances, albeit after she had been unseated by the Constitutional Court.

As public protests grow louder and the world watches closely, the question remains: will Yoon Suk Yeol's political career end in disgrace, or could he find a way to reclaim his presidency?

Stay tuned!