Historic Arrest: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Faces Insurrection Charges

In a dramatic turn of events, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was arrested on Wednesday amid a high-stakes investigation into his controversial attempt to impose martial law. This unprecedented move marks the first time in the nation’s history that a sitting president has faced arrest.

The operation unfolded early in the morning as hundreds of anti-corruption investigators and police officers descended on Yoon’s residence, effectively ending a weeks-long standoff. This second arrest attempt came after a failed effort on January 3, when members of Yoon’s Presidential Security Service (PSS) thwarted investigators’ initial efforts to execute a warrant.

Yoon’s lawyer announced that the president had agreed to cooperate and would leave his residence to prevent a “serious incident.” However, shortly thereafter, investigators confirmed his arrest at 10:33 a.m. (0130 GMT).

Witnesses reported tense moments at the presidential compound as Yoon’s fervent supporters rallied to protect him, chanting “illegal warrant!” and hoisting South Korean and American flags. Clashes briefly erupted at the gate, where around 30 lawmakers from Yoon’s ruling People Power Party attempted to shield him from arrest, reinforcing the compound, which opposition members dubbed a “fortress” with barbed wire and barricades.

In light of the volatile atmosphere, police opted to wear bulletproof vests but refrained from carrying firearms during this latest attempt. Following his arrest, Yoon can be detained for up to 48 hours under the current warrant, though investigators will need to seek an additional warrant for extended custody.

Yoon’s legal team has vigorously contested the legality of the arrest warrant, calling it unjustified. Meanwhile, his impeachment trial commenced on Tuesday, with a brief hearing proceeding in his absence—an absence attributed by his team to alleged safety concerns. Despite the adjournment, the trial will continue, with the next hearing scheduled for Thursday.

As South Korea navigates this unprecedented political crisis, the ramifications of Yoon’s actions and the unfolding investigation are sure to shape the nation’s future.