Seoul: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was detained Wednesday by anti-corruption authorities after a tense, weeks-long standoff.
He was taken into custody from his residence in a motorcade amid heightened security by law enforcement agencies.
This marks the first time a sitting South Korean president has been arrested during their term in office.
Yoon faces multiple investigations tied to his controversial martial law decree issued last month.
Insurrection Allegations Against President Yoon
The declaration led to accusations of insurrection, a crime carrying a potential life sentence or death penalty.
Yoon’s fortified residence became his refuge, protected by the Presidential Security Service for weeks.
He evaded authorities while under probes and impeachment proceedings initiated by South Korea’s legislative body.
Efforts to arrest him earlier this month were blocked by soldiers and security personnel.
CIO’s Persistence in Arrest Operation
The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) led operations to detain Yoon with police and defense ministry collaboration.
An earlier attempt resulted in an hours-long confrontation with over 80 law enforcement agents halted by security forces.
Following his arrest, Yoon released a pre-recorded message denouncing the investigations as unlawful and politically motivated.
He claimed his actions aimed to uphold the constitution and prevent unnecessary violence during the ongoing crisis.
Legal Timeline for Yoon’s Detention
Authorities are permitted to hold Yoon for 48 hours, during which further detention requires judicial authorization.
The CIO must apply for a formal arrest warrant within the allowed timeframe to extend his custody.
This case has drawn intense public attention, highlighting deep political divisions within South Korea.
The unfolding saga remains a pivotal moment in the nation’s contemporary political history.
