South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol is set to “fight until the end” as he faces an arrest warrant over his short-lived imposition of martial law last month. In a letter to supporters, Yoon vowed to protect the country together with them, sparking concerns from opposition parties.
A court approved a warrant for Yoon’s arrest on Tuesday, which would make him the first sitting president to be detained as part of investigations over allegations he masterminded insurrection by trying to impose martial law. The Corruption Investigation Office has until January 6 to execute the warrant.
However, it is unclear when and how police will carry out the arrest, with presidential security blocking attempts to search Yoon’s office and residence. A lawyer for Yoon claimed that the arrest warrant was illegal and invalid, citing a lack of authority under South Korean law.
The opposition Democratic Party views Yoon’s letter as proof that he remains committed to his “insurrection” and has incited his supporters to violence. The party’s spokesman stated that Yoon’s actions are “extreme” and will not be tolerated.
Yoon’s trial on impeachment is ongoing at the Constitutional Court, with a second hearing scheduled for Friday. If the court upholds the impeachment and removes Yoon from office, a new presidential election will be held within 60 days.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-koreas-yoon-facing-unprecedented-arrest-over-martial-law-vows-fight-til-2025-01-02