South Korea’s President Yoon Faces Impeachment, Defies Arrest
south Korea is embroiled in a deep political crisis as suspended president Yoon Suk Yeol continues to resist arrest following a failed attempt at imposing martial law.Thousands of protesters, undeterred by a blizzard, took to teh streets of Seoul this weekend, demanding accountability for the president’s actions.
The controversial martial law declaration last month plunged the nation into chaos. President Yoon, ensconced in the presidential residence with a loyal security detail, has defied multiple attempts by investigators to take him into custody. The deadline for the arrest warrant is rapidly approaching.
The protests are sharply divided. while some demand Yoon’s immediate arrest, others are calling for the invalidation of his impeachment. Yesterday’s demonstrations, following an unsuccessful arrest attempt, saw massive crowds converging on the presidential residence and major thoroughfares in Seoul. Reports indicate a important turnout.
Despite the harsh winter conditions, pro-Yoon supporters gathered outside the presidential residence on Sunday. Meanwhile, a counter-protest was scheduled for later in the day. Adding to the tension, President Yoon himself reportedly watched pro-government protests via a YouTube livestream, vowing to “fight” those challenging his actions.
Yoon faces serious charges of insurrection, a crime not covered by presidential immunity. A conviction could result in a prison sentence or even the death penalty. His arrest would mark a historic precedent, making him the first sitting South Korean president to be taken into custody.
International Involvement and Political Fallout
The opposition Democratic Party has called for the disbanding of the Presidential Security service, citing their role in obstructing the investigation. Floor leader Park Chan-dae issued a strong statement to parliament: “The Presidential Security Service has violated the constitution, effectively positioning itself as a force of insurrection.”
The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO), leading the inquiry into the martial law declaration, and the opposition are urging acting President Choi Sang-mok to compel the security service’s cooperation. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s upcoming visit to Seoul is expected to focus on maintaining policy continuity while urging a change in approach.
Yoon’s legal team has denounced Friday’s arrest attempt as “unlawful and invalid,” promising legal action. The dramatic standoff saw security forces and military personnel shielding the president from investigators, who ultimately called off the arrest due to safety concerns.
The Constitutional Court has scheduled Yoon’s impeachment trial for January 14th. The trial will proceed even if he fails to appear.The court has up to 180 days to decide whether to remove Yoon from office or reinstate his powers. Until then, he retains the presidential title despite his suspension. This situation echoes the cases of former presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Park Geun-hye, who also did not participate in their impeachment trials.
