Faith Nyasuguta
South Korea’s impeached president, Yoon Suk Yeol, was arrested on Wednesday following his failed attempt to impose martial law, marking a historic first as the nation’s sitting leader taken into custody. The dramatic arrest brought an end to weeks of tension and resistance by Yoon, who had sought to evade authorities.
Yoon, who faces charges of insurrection, risks the death penalty or life imprisonment if convicted. “I decided to respond to the Corruption Investigation Office to prevent any unfortunate bloodshed,” he said in a pre-recorded video message released after his arrest.
Failed Martial Law Bid
Yoon stunned the nation on December 3 when he declared martial law, claiming it was necessary to safeguard South Korea against alleged threats from North Korea and “anti-state elements.” Troops were deployed to parliament, but lawmakers defied the move, voting to reject the martial law declaration. The decree was revoked just six hours later, but the damage to Yoon’s presidency was irreversible.
The declaration triggered a political firestorm, leading to his impeachment and the launch of legal proceedings. Despite these developments, Yoon remained defiant, accusing “hostile nations” and domestic opponents of undermining his leadership.
For weeks, Yoon barricaded himself inside his residential compound, protected by loyal members of the Presidential Security Service (PSS). The compound, fortified with barbed wire and bus barricades, was labeled a “fortress” by critics. His guards managed to thwart an initial arrest attempt on January 3, resulting in a tense standoff with investigators.
However, before dawn on Wednesday, authorities returned with a fresh warrant. Hundreds of officers from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) surrounded the residence, scaling walls and cutting through barricades to reach the main building. After a five-hour standoff, Yoon was arrested.
As investigators escorted him from the compound, scuffles erupted between authorities and Yoon’s die-hard supporters, who chanted “illegal warrant!” and waved South Korean and American flags.
Legal Battle Begins
Following his arrest, Yoon was transported to the CIO offices, where he exercised his right to remain silent during questioning. Officials later confirmed he would spend the night at a detention center. His legal team condemned the arrest as unlawful, with Yoon himself refusing to acknowledge the legitimacy of the investigation.
“History will inevitably record the fact that the CIO and the police executed an unjust and illegal warrant,” said Kweon Seong-dong, a floor leader of Yoon’s ruling People Power Party (PPP).
Meanwhile, South Korea’s opposition Democratic Party celebrated the arrest, calling it a step toward restoring constitutional order. “We should focus on stabilizing state affairs and restoring people’s livelihoods,” said Woo Won-shik, a top opposition official.
Impeachment Trial Underway
In a parallel legal battle, the Constitutional Court is reviewing Yoon’s impeachment. If upheld, his presidency will officially end, triggering fresh elections within 60 days. While Yoon declined to attend the initial hearing, the trial could take months to conclude.
For now, South Korea remains gripped by the political crisis surrounding its impeached leader. Yoon’s arrest marks a turning point in the country’s democratic history, with its outcome likely to have lasting implications for the nation’s political and legal climate.
RELATED:
