In a historic move, South Korean authorities arrested impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday, marking the first time an incumbent president has faced arrest in the nation. Yoon, who has been accused of leading an insurrection, declared his compliance with the investigation to avoid potential violence, despite labeling the probe "illegal."
More than 3,000 police officers descended on Yoon's hillside residence in the early hours of Wednesday to enforce the arrest, following his brief declaration of martial law on December 3. This event had led to his impeachment by lawmakers on December 14, plunging South Korea into political turmoil.
“I decided to respond to the CIO’s investigation—despite it being an illegal investigation—to prevent unsavory bloodshed,” Yoon stated, referring to the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), which is leading the probe.
Yoon’s legal team has called the arrest warrant invalid, citing jurisdictional errors and questioning the CIO’s authority. A search warrant seen by Reuters identified Yoon as the “ringleader of insurrection,” further deepening the controversy.
Yoon was transported from his residence in a motorcade, evading media scrutiny as he entered the investigators’ office through a rear entrance. Authorities have 48 hours to interrogate him before deciding whether to seek further detention or release him.
While Yoon awaits legal outcomes, including the Constitutional Court’s deliberation on his impeachment, international observers, including the U.S. and Japan, are closely monitoring the situation.
Yoon’s martial law declaration shocked the nation and strained its economy, but his arrest has ignited fierce debate. Supporters, some likening Yoon’s plight to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s election fraud claims, gathered outside his residence in freezing temperatures, waving flags and chanting slogans.
“It is very sad to see our country falling apart,” said Kim Woo-sub, a 70-year-old retiree among the protesters.
Despite widespread disapproval of Yoon’s actions, his People Power Party (PPP) has seen a resurgence. A recent Realmeter poll revealed narrowing gaps between the PPP (40.8%) and the opposition Democratic Party (42.2%), signaling a potential political shift.
As South Korea grapples with this unprecedented crisis, the nation awaits further developments that could shape its political future.