ALWAGHT- South Korean investigators have ordered the arrest of President Yoon Suk-Yeol after weeks of deadlock.
South Korean authorities arrested impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday, making him the first sitting president in the country to face arrest. The arrest followed allegations of insurrection and weeks of standoff during which Yoon had remained in his hillside villa in Seoul. Despite condemning the investigation as unlawful, Yoon ultimately complied to avoid violence as over 3,000 police officers surrounded his residence. His surrender came after the Constitutional Court had adjourned his impeachment trial due to his absence.
The dramatic pre-dawn arrest attempt captured national attention, with live broadcasts showing clashes between police and Yoon's supporters. Protesters rallied in freezing temperatures, some displaying "Stop the Steal" banners and comparing Yoon's situation to former US President Donald Trump. Yoon's supporters expressed hope for international backing and cited shared allegations of election fraud, which Yoon had used to justify declaring martial law prior to his impeachment.
While most South Koreans support Yoon's impeachment and disapprove of his actions, his supporters and the People Power Party (PPP) have gained traction. Recent polling indicates a narrowing gap between the PPP and the opposition Democratic Party, reflecting the deep political divisions sparked by Yoon’s presidency and impeachment. Authorities now have 48 hours to interrogate Yoon before deciding whether to extend his detention or release him.
