South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol is facing a new attempt to arrest him after a top investigator vowed to break the security blockade surrounding his residence. Acting President Choi Sang-mok urged authorities to prevent injuries and conflict during the arrest, while protesters supporting and opposing Yoon braved freezing temperatures to stage rallies around the compound.
The Presidential Security Service has fortified the compound with barbed wire and barricades using buses, making it difficult for authorities to access the residence. Yoon is under investigation for insurrection after attempting to impose martial law in December. He also faces an impeachment trial in the Constitutional Court.
Yoon’s lawyer said he could not accept the execution of the arrest warrant due to its issuance by a court in the wrong jurisdiction and lack of mandate from investigators. The head of the Corruption Investigation Office apologized for failing to arrest Yoon last week after a six-hour standoff with authorities, stating that they would “do their best” to accomplish their goal this time.
Protesters expressed concerns about safety, citing the risk of gunfire and potential conflict between government agencies. Authorities are considering various scenarios, including mobilizing police special tactical units and heavy equipment to push through barricades, but prioritize caution. Yoon’s supporters argue he deserves protection as a democratically elected leader, while opponents believe he should face consequences for his actions.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/south-koreas-yoon-faces-second-arrest-attempt-fortified-compound-2025-01-08