In a historic move, South Korean authorities have arrested President Yoon Suk Yeol on charges of insurrection following his brief imposition of martial law on December 3, 2024. This marks the first time a sitting South Korean president has been detained while in office. Yoon's arrest comes after his impeachment by the National Assembly on December 14, which suspended his presidential powers pending a Constitutional Court decision on his removal.
The arrest operation at Yoon's residence in central Seoul involved a significant police presence, with over 1,200 officers deployed to execute the warrant. After a six-hour standoff, Yoon surrendered to prevent potential violence, though he criticized the legality of his arrest. His lawyers argue that the arrest is illegal due to jurisdictional issues, and they plan to seek an injunction at the Constitutional Court to invalidate the warrant.
Yoon's declaration of martial law, which he justified as necessary to address "anti-state forces," was met with widespread backlash and accusations of authoritarianism. The move has deeply divided the nation, igniting protests from his supporters who allege election fraud, similar to claims made by former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2020. The political turmoil has also affected domestic politics, with Yoon's People Power Party experiencing a resurgence in support.
The Constitutional Court is now deliberating on Yoon's impeachment, a process that could take up to six months. If the court upholds the impeachment, Yoon will be permanently removed from office, leading to a new presidential election. In the interim, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok is serving as acting president. Yoon faces possible life imprisonment, or even the death penalty, over his brief imposition of martial law, as he does not have immunity in cases of rebellion or treason.
International observers, including the United States and Japan, are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of constitutional adherence. Yoon's arrest has heightened tensions within South Korea, with some warning of potential civil unrest. The nation now faces a critical juncture as it navigates this unprecedented political crisis.
