South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was arrested on January 15, 2025, following a tense standoff at his official residence in Seoul. Authorities, including the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) and police, executed an arrest warrant related to charges of insurrection and abuse of power stemming from Yoon's brief imposition of martial law in December 2024.
The arrest operation commenced early in the morning, with approximately 3,000 police officers deployed to the presidential compound in Hannam-dong. Supporters of Yoon had formed human barricades around the residence, leading to clashes with law enforcement. Despite the resistance, authorities successfully detained Yoon after several hours.
In a pre-recorded video message released during the arrest, Yoon stated, "The rule of law has completely collapsed," expressing his disagreement with the investigation but indicating his compliance to avoid potential bloodshed.
This event marks the first time a sitting South Korean president has been arrested. Yoon's declaration of martial law in December 2024 led to his impeachment by the National Assembly, plunging the nation into a constitutional crisis. The Constitutional Court is currently reviewing the validity of his impeachment.
Following his arrest, Yoon was transported to the CIO headquarters for questioning. The agency has 48 hours to interrogate him, with the possibility of requesting an extension for further detention. The investigation focuses on Yoon's alleged insurrection and abuse of power during the martial law period.
The arrest has intensified political tensions in South Korea, with minor clashes reported between Yoon's supporters and opponents. The situation remains fluid as the nation awaits the Constitutional Court's decision on the impeachment and the outcome of the ongoing investigation.