South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol avoids impeachment bid amid row over martial law — Story
On Friday, January 3, 2025, South Korean police and anti-corruption investigators entered the residence of suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul. The visit followed a court-approved arrest warrant, marking a historic first against a sitting president. The move came after Yoon’s refusal to comply with multiple summonses for questioning over accusations, including leading an insurrection—a charge that carries life imprisonment or the death penalty.
The arrest warrant was issued on Tuesday, sparking heightened tensions across the nation. Outside the presidential residence, hundreds of Yoon’s supporters gathered in freezing temperatures, holding signs and chanting slogans against the authorities. Some described the arrest as “treason” and called for the CIO (Corruption Investigation Office) to be disbanded.
President Yoon, who was impeached by parliament last month, has remained defiant. In a rare public statement on Thursday, he vowed to “fight to the end” against what he called an unjust process. His legal team has labeled the arrest warrant “illegal and invalid,” filing objections with both the Constitutional Court and a lower court.
Security forces around the residence were on high alert as investigators attempted to enforce the warrant. The CIO confirmed that Yoon could be held for up to 48 hours for questioning, with an option to apply for an extension if necessary.
The political turmoil stems from Yoon’s surprise declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024. In his late-night address, Yoon accused opposition lawmakers of paralyzing the government and justified martial law as essential for national security. However, within hours, the National Assembly overturned the decree, with even members of Yoon’s party voting against him.
The fallout has been significant. Alongside Yoon, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was also impeached. Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok has since assumed the role of acting president, navigating the country through one of its most unstable political periods in recent history.
Reports have emerged that during the martial law standoff, Yoon allegedly ordered military forces to use firearms to breach the National Assembly doors. These claims are now part of the investigation.
The Constitutional Court is currently handling Yoon’s impeachment trial, with the next hearing set for Friday. The court has pledged to prioritize the case, though a final verdict could take up to six months.
As investigators continue their work, South Korea finds itself at a critical crossroads. Public sentiment remains deeply divided, with protests expected to continue in the coming days. The nation waits anxiously for answers and clarity in one of its most dramatic political sagas.
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