Official announcements from the South Korean government

South Korea's Anti-Corruption Agency Seeks Police Help to Detain Impeached Yoon Before Arrest Warrant Expires

Jan 6, 2025, 02:08 AM

South Korea's anti-corruption agency has requested police to take over efforts to detain impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol after a failed attempt by investigators last week. The arrest warrant, issued by the Seoul Western District Court on December 31, 2024, is set to expire on January 6, 2025. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) plans to seek an extension of the warrant. The initial detention attempt faced resistance from the presidential security service, resulting in an hours-long standoff. Yoon, who was impeached on December 14, 2024, is under investigation for rebellion charges after declaring martial law on December 3, 2024, and deploying troops to surround the National Assembly. The martial law was revoked hours later. Protests have been held near Yoon's residence, and barbed wire has been installed at the site in preparation for another detention attempt. The impeachment has suspended his presidential powers, and the Constitutional Court is deliberating whether to remove him from office or reinstate him.