In a dramatic twist for South Korea’s political landscape, authorities arrested impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday over allegations of insurrection. His detention marks the first time in the nation’s history that a sitting president has been arrested, further intensifying the political chaos surrounding the embattled leader.
Yoon’s arrest follows weeks of tension, after lawmakers voted to impeach him following his controversial declaration of martial law in early December. The decision was made amid widespread unrest, and after an unsuccessful attempt to arrest him previously, Yoon remained holed up in his hillside residence, surrounded by security.
Facing down the prospect of a violent confrontation, Yoon finally agreed to comply with authorities’ orders. “I decided to respond to the investigation to prevent unnecessary bloodshed,” he said in a statement, referring to the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), which led the inquiry.
This unprecedented arrest captivated the nation, as live footage broadcast police units storming Yoon’s residence before dawn, clashing with his supporters. As police advanced with ladders and wire cutters, tensions flared, leading to scuffles between protesters and law enforcement outside the compound.
Despite overwhelming public disapproval of his martial law declaration, Yoon retains significant support from his loyal followers, many of whom are now rallying behind him. Some of these supporters have drawn comparisons between Yoon’s political challenges and those of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, citing allegations of election fraud as a common ground.
Yoon’s legal team has vehemently argued that the arrest warrant was issued under improper jurisdiction, claiming that the investigation itself was illegal. Meanwhile, the country waits as the Constitutional Court deliberates whether Yoon’s impeachment should stand, potentially ending his presidency or restoring his power.
For now, the political standoff continues, with South Koreans divided over Yoon’s fate. Public opinion polls show a tight race between his People Power Party (PPP) and the opposition Democratic Party, signaling that this chapter of South Korea’s political saga is far from over.
