Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol is resisting attempts to detain him, escalating security concerns. His legal team has challenged the legitimacy of a new arrest warrant, accusing authorities of exploiting biased courts.
Yoon faces charges of rebellion after briefly declaring martial law on December 3, deploying troops to surround the National Assembly. His impeachment followed swiftly, with lawmakers overturning his martial law declaration and suspending his powers on December 14. The Constitutional Court is deliberating whether to remove him from office or reinstate him.
Despite repeated summons, Yoon has avoided questioning. A detention warrant issued by the Seoul Western District Court on Tuesday has led to heightened security at his residence, with barbed wire and vehicles blocking access. Presidential security personnel have been warned they may face arrest if they obstruct law enforcement.
Yoon’s legal team argues that the anti-corruption agency lacks authority to investigate rebellion charges or order detentions. They called for a formal arrest warrant through the Seoul Central District Court, claiming the Western Court was chosen to exploit a sympathetic judge.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok urged restraint to prevent violence during any arrest attempt, as tensions rise between Yoon’s supporters and critics, who protest daily outside his residence.
