SEOUL, South Korea – South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol resisted a nearly six-hour attempt by anti-corruption investigators to detain him, escalating a political crisis that has gripped the nation. The standoff highlights deepening divisions and the ongoing struggle for power.
Investigators from the country's anti-corruption agency were blocked from entering Yoon's residence, prompting the withdrawal of the team after concerns for their safety. The agency expressed disappointment with Yoon's actions, citing his non-compliance with legal procedures.
Yoon, a former prosecutor, has consistently refused to cooperate with questioning by investigators. His last public appearance at the presidential office on December 12 was marked by a defiant statement, vowing to challenge attempts to remove him from office.
The situation intensified following Yoon's controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, a move apparently fueled by frustration over political gridlock in the opposition-controlled parliament. This action was quickly overturned by the National Assembly, resulting in Yoon's impeachment on December 14. Both anti-corruption authorities and prosecutors have initiated separate investigations into the events.
A Seoul court issued a warrant for Yoon's detention on Tuesday. However, enforcement is complicated by his residence, which is protected from such actions by law. Yoon's legal team challenged the warrant, citing legal protections for sites potentially containing military secrets.
Pro-Yoon protesters rallied outside the presidential residence Friday, demonstrating public support for the president amid the tense standoff. No significant clashes were reported.
The anti-corruption agency's efforts to detain Yoon are met with opposition from his lawyers, who claim the investigating agency lacks the authority to pursue rebellion charges. Furthermore, they argue that the accompanying police officers may face arrest.
The outcome remains uncertain. Yoon's fate now rests with the Constitutional Court, which is reviewing the impeachment proceedings. A formal removal from office requires a favorable vote from at least six of the nine justices.
