SEOUL: Supporters of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol stormed a court after it extended his detention early Sunday morning.
Court Stormed After Detention Decision
Hundreds of protesters attacked the Seoul Western District Court building following Yoon’s extended custody announcement at 3 a.m. local time. Riot police struggled to contain the protesters, who shattered windows and stormed inside the court.
Chaotic Scenes Unfold
Demonstrators used fire extinguishers to break through police lines before entering the court. They damaged furniture, office equipment, and other property during the intrusion. Live-streamed videos showed participants chanting Yoon’s name as they vandalized the facility.
Police Regain Control
Order was restored a few hours later. Police reported arresting 46 protesters and pledged to locate others involved. Yonhap news agency stated nine police officers were injured, while around 40 protesters sustained minor injuries.
Government Condemns Violence
Acting President Choi Sang-mok condemned the attack as “unimaginable in a democratic society.” He promised increased security around future gatherings and stressed that illegal acts would face severe repercussions.
President Yoon’s Ongoing Detention
Yoon, arrested Wednesday, became the first sitting president detained in South Korea. He faces allegations of insurrection following a brief declaration of martial law on December 3.
After a five-hour Saturday hearing, the court issued a new warrant extending Yoon’s detention for up to 20 days. The court cited concerns he could destroy evidence during the ongoing investigation.
Legal Battle and Solitary Confinement
Yoon’s legal team argued his arrest was unlawful, claiming errors in jurisdiction and mandate by the investigating team. Yoon remains in a solitary cell at the Seoul Detention Centre, undergoing standard procedures for detained suspects.
Severe Charges and Rare Penalties
Yoon faces potential charges of insurrection, a crime punishable by death in South Korea. Although the country has not executed anyone in nearly 30 years, the severity of the case has captured national attention.
The corruption investigation office stated that Yoon refused questioning again on Sunday. His lawyers vowed to challenge the legality of the arrest, declaring, “President Yoon Suk Yeol will never give up.”
