Tense political turmoil: South Korean president’s failed power grab backfires | WATCH
South Korea: In an unprecedented move, South Korean investigators attempted to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol following his failed martial law bid. Clashes, barricades, and high drama unfolded as authorities entered his residence amidst public outcry and political tension.
South Korea: It is one of the bold attempts that took place when on Wednesday South Korean investigators made the attempt to put under custody the impeached president, Yoon Suk Yeol. They invaded his residence through ladders on his Seoul estate as resistance loomed as heavily guarded according to Reuters. In fact, there has been nothing like it to have been in the country, following his futile attempt for December 3 martial law.
Impeached president resists arrest
President Yoon Suk Yeol, suspended by lawmakers after instructing soldiers to storm Parliament to stop a vote against his action, is now facing an arrest warrant issued by the court. If implemented, he would become the first arrested sitting president in South Korea. Acting President Choi Sang-mok said, "The execution of the presidential arrest warrant has started. This is a crucial time for the order and rule of law in South Korea.
Tensions build as officials encounter resistance
Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) officials and police officers attempted to enter Yoon's home early Wednesday morning. Scuffles broke out after unidentified personnel stood in their way. In an intense escalation, about 20 investigators scaled ladders into the compound, and others tried various entry routes including a mountain trail.
In South Korea, the President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law. Then the legislature overrode it. Then he got impeached. Now they’re trying to arrest him… and things are going south fast.
— Jess Fields (@jessalanfields) January 14, 2025
It’s worth pointing out that Yoon is seen as a conservative.pic.twitter.com/1Ie9rA3reB
"Negotiations are in progress for the voluntary surrender that would avoid the further clash," Yoon's lawyer, Seok Dong-hyeon wrote on Facebook. The tense confrontation left at least one person hurt, and rescuers took away the injured party.
Supporters rally as security chief arrested
Hundreds of supporters of Yoon gathered in front of his residence, making barricades and shouting against the arrest. Meanwhile, police detained Kim Seong-hoon, the acting chief of the Presidential Security Service, for obstructing the investigators' initial attempt to arrest Yoon. Roads to the residence were cordoned off with police buses blocking the passage.
Political fallout and public reaction
This high-stakes confrontation has drawn sharp public and political attention. The dramatic events signify not just a legal battle but a critical test of South Korea's democratic resilience in the face of its most significant political crisis in decades.
