Yoon Suk-yeol Photo: Getty images
Ousted South Korean President Yun Suk-yol will be detained until the arrest warrant expires on 6 January. This was reported by investigators on Wednesday, 1 January, after the president’s failed attempt to impose martial law in early December, AFP reports.
Protests near the residence
Supporters and opponents of Yoon gathered outside his residence in Seoul, where the former president had been hiding for several weeks, ignoring summonses for questioning three times. On Wednesday, the head of the Corruption Perception Office (CIO), Oh Dong-won, confirmed that the arrest would be made no later than 6 January.
Statement by Yoon Sook-yol
In an address to his supporters, Yoon said he would continue to fight:
“The Republic of Korea is in danger due to internal and external forces that threaten its sovereignty, as well as anti-state elements.”
His statement provoked a sharp reaction from the opposition. Democratic Party deputy Jo Sung-le called it “unacceptable” and accused Yoon of trying to incite the public to conflict.
Historical situation
This is the first time in South Korea’s history that a sitting president has been detained on an arrest warrant. Despite being removed from office after the impeachment, Yoon remains the official head of state until the Constitutional Court’s decision, which is due by mid-June.
Attempt to seize power
On 3 December, Yun Suk-yol declared martial law, ordering the military to occupy the parliament. However, the next morning, he retreated due to mass protests by MPs and demonstrators.
The former president is accused of “rebellion”, a crime that is theoretically punishable by death. He is currently banned from leaving the country.
The incident casts doubt on South Korea’s political stability and highlights deep divisions in society over the country’s leadership.
