South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Arrested Amid Martial Law Controversy

In an unprecedented turn of events, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been arrested following his controversial declaration of martial law on 3rd December 2024. This marks the first time a sitting South Korean president has been taken into custody, plunging the nation into political turmoil.

The crisis began when President Yoon declared martial law, citing threats from “anti-state” forces allegedly sympathetic to North Korea. This move was met with swift opposition, leading the National Assembly to overturn the declaration within hours. Subsequently, on 14th December, the Assembly voted to impeach Yoon, suspending his presidential powers pending a Constitutional Court decision.

Despite his impeachment, Yoon remained defiant, refusing to comply with multiple summonses for questioning. This standoff culminated on 15th January 2025, when a large team of investigators and police officers executed a pre-dawn operation to arrest him at his residence in central Seoul. The arrest was carried out peacefully, despite the significant security presence.

Yoon’s arrest has deepened the political divide in South Korea, with supporters decrying the move as a breakdown of the rule of law, while opponents view it as a necessary step toward restoring constitutional order. The nation now awaits the Constitutional Court’s ruling on Yoon’s impeachment, which will determine whether he is permanently removed from office.

In the interim, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok has assumed the role of acting president, following the impeachment of former acting president Han Duck-soo. The government has assured citizens and international observers of its commitment to maintaining stability during this tumultuous period.

As the situation unfolds, South Koreans remain on edge, with daily protests reflecting the nation’s deepening polarisation. The coming weeks are critical as the Constitutional Court deliberates on the future of the presidency and the nation’s democratic principles.

For more details on South Korea’s presidential office and updates on the nation’s leadership, visit the official website of the Office of the President.

For more updates on this developing story and other international news, visit EyeOnLondon.

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