SEOUL: Tensions are escalating around South Korea's presidential residence as investigators prepare to arrest the impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. Supporters of Yoon have gathered outside the residence in a bid to prevent his arrest by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO).
According to Anadolu Agency, the situation outside Yoon's residence in the Yongsan district of Seoul has intensified, with clashes breaking out between conservative supporters of the president and police. This confrontation was sparked when one of Yoon's supporters breached a police cordon. Meanwhile, a liberal group is advocating for Yoon's arrest following the issuance of warrants by the Seoul Western District Court, which are set to expire on Monday.
Yoon faces serious charges, including masterminding a short-lived martial law on December 3, insurrection, treason, and abuse of power. This marks the first time a sitting South Korean president has confronted such severe charges, including an arrest warrant.
The CIO, which has been cautious in executing the warrant, is considering proceeding with Yoon's detention as early as Thursday. This caution stems from Yoon's refusal to comply with four summons for questioning and his security team's efforts to block investigators from entering his office. The former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun and several military commanders have already been arrested in connection with the failed martial law.
Yoon, who was impeached by parliament on December 14, is currently awaiting a trial by the Constitutional Court, which could take up to six months to determine whether he will be removed from office. Despite the charges, Yoon has denied wrongdoing and, in a written address to his supporters, vowed to "fight to the end to protect the country," citing threats from internal and external forces.
CIO Chief Oh Dong-woon has cautioned the presidential security team that any interference with Yoon's arrest could constitute dereliction of duty and obstruction of official duties. As tensions continue to mount, the situation remains fluid with potential implications for South Korea's political landscape.