Official announcements from South Korean government or major news outlets

South Korea Deploys 2,700 Officers to Arrest President Yoon on Insurrection Charges

Jan 2, 2025, 09:30 AM

South Korean authorities are preparing to execute an arrest warrant against President Yoon Suk Yeol on charges including plotting martial law, insurrection, and abuse of authority. The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO), led by Chief O Dong-woon, plans to detain the president by January 6, coordinating with police forces and deploying approximately 2,700 officers around the presidential residence in Seoul. The arrest warrant includes a clause stating that Articles 110 and 111 of the Criminal Procedure Act do not apply, aiming to prevent obstruction. Supporters and opponents of President Yoon have gathered outside his residence, leading to tensions and clashes. The president has sent messages to his supporters, stating he will "fight to the end" and urging resistance. His legal team has filed an objection to the arrest warrant with the Seoul Western District Court. Authorities have warned that obstructing the arrest could result in prosecution for obstructing public duties. This marks the first time in South Korea's history that an arrest warrant has been issued against a sitting president. Concerns are rising about potential resistance from the presidential security team, which may attempt to block the arrest. The situation remains tense as investigators proceed with the warrant execution.