Seoul, South Korea – A tense standoff continues between South Korean authorities and impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol as the deadline for his detention looms. Hundreds of protesters gathered in freezing temperatures outside Yoon’s residence over the weekend, calling for his arrest, while pro-Yoon supporters vowed to shield him from authorities.
The drama follows Yoon’s impeachment on December 14, 2024, after he declared martial law to bypass a legislature controlled by the opposition. Move, which deployed military forces to surround the National Assembly, was swiftly overturned by lawmakers and sparked widespread condemnation. South Korea’s anti-corruption agency and public prosecutors have since opened investigations into his actions, accusing him of rebellion.
A Warrant on Brink of Expiry
On Tuesday, a Seoul court issued a detention warrant for Yoon, valid through Monday, alongside a warrant to search his residence. However, attempts to enforce warrants have been fraught with obstacles. On Friday, investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials (CIO) and police officers retreated after a five-hour standoff with Yoon’s presidential security team.
Security service has fortified Yoon’s residence with barbed wire and barricades, raising concerns over potential clashes if a detention attempt is made.
“We’re running out of time,” said Kim Eun-jeong, an activist at an anti-Yoon rally. “Presidential security service is shielding a criminal, and anti-corruption agency needs to act decisively.”
Divided Streets, Divided Nation
political crisis has polarized South Korea. Hundreds of anti-Yoon protesters braved sub-zero temperatures near the residence, demanding his immediate detention. Nearby, pro-Yoon demonstrators staged counter-rallies, pledging to protect the impeached president. Police worked to keep groups separated with barricades and buses.
Escalating tension underscores deep divisions in South Korean society, as both sides accuse or of undermining democracy.
Legal and Ethical Implications
Yoon’s presidential security service has faced criticism for obstructing detention warrants. While the agency is mandated to protect the president, legal experts argue that this does not extend to shielding him from lawful detention.
“Security act does not authorize blocking a court-ordered detainment, particularly in cases involving rebellion,” said Park Sung-bae, a criminal law attorney.
The agency defended its actions, citing safety concerns during Friday’s standoff, which included scuffles between security personnel and investigators. Acting Defense Minister Kim Seon-ho urged the presidential security service to avoid placing military troops in confrontational positions, calling their involvement “inappropriate.”
Yoon’s Counteroffensive
Yoon’s legal team has vowed to fight back, announcing plans to file complaints against the anti-corruption agency and police for alleged unlawful actions during a detention attempt. The team argues that detention warrants cannot be enforced at Yoon’s residence, citing laws protecting locations linked to military secrets.
Meanwhile, several of Yoon’s former allies, including his defense minister and top military commanders, have already been arrested for ir roles in enforcing martial law.
What’s Next?
If authorities fail to detain Yoon by Monday’s deadline, a warrant will expire, and he will remain at his residence under the protection of the Presidential Security Service. However, if detained, Yoon could face formal arrest pending court approval.
The outcome of this high-stakes confrontation will not only determine Yoon’s fate but also test South Korea’s commitment to upholding democratic principles in the face of political and institutional turmoil.
As the clock ticks down, all eyes are on Seoul, where the struggle between law enforcement and a defiant leader encapsulates a broader battle for the nation’s democratic integrity.
