South Korea authorities move to arrest impeached President Yoon
Authorities moved to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday, sparking tense standoffs between police and protesters outside his residence. Yoon faces criminal charges of insurrection for his brief martial law attempt on December 3, a first for a sitting South Korean president.
Officials from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO), supported by police and prosecutors, arrived at Yoon’s compound early in the morning. Around 3,000 police officers were mobilized to maintain order. However, protesters gathered near the residence, blocking roads and chanting slogans to prevent the arrest.
Some protesters vowed to defend Yoon, with one calling the crowd “patriotic citizens” as they waved flags and demanded the arrest of the CIO head. Others hoped for U.S. intervention, citing incoming President Donald Trump’s potential support for Yoon.
Yoon’s martial law announcement last month shocked the nation but was swiftly overturned by lawmakers within hours. His impeachment followed on December 14, leaving him suspended from office. His defiance continues, accusing opponents of North Korea sympathies and citing unverified election fraud claims.
While Yoon’s lawyers argue the arrest warrant is illegal, the Constitutional Court is deliberating his impeachment. A decision on his fate remains pending, with a second hearing scheduled for later Friday.
