Reports from South Korean police or major news outlets

South Korea's CIO to Arrest President Yoon Suk Yeol by January 6 Amid Insurrection Allegations

Jan 2, 2025, 01:00 AM

South Korea's Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) is poised to execute an arrest warrant against President Yoon Suk Yeol as early as Thursday, amid allegations of leading an insurrection. The warrant, issued by the Seoul Western District Court, includes an exceptional clause that allows for the search of the presidential residence without the approval of the Presidential Security Service. This move has escalated tensions, with supporters of President Yoon gathering near the presidential residence in an attempt to thwart the arrest. The warrant's execution deadline is set for January 6, and the CIO has emphasized that any obstruction by the security team will be treated as interference with public duties. President Yoon's legal team has filed an objection to the warrant's execution with the Seoul Western District Court, arguing that it is illegal and invalid. Meanwhile, clashes between supporters and protesters have intensified around the presidential residence, with police forces on standby to manage potential conflicts.