In South Korea, investigators faced a tense six-hour standoff outside the official residence of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has defied attempts to detain him, thereby deepening the nation’s political crisis. The country’s anti-corruption agency eventually withdrew its investigators after they were blocked by presidential security from entering Yoon’s residence, citing safety concerns. Despite detainment and search warrants being issued, enforcement has been hindered by the protective measures around Yoon and the presence of pro-Yoon demonstrators.
The National Police Agency is now investigating the presidential security chiefs for allegedly obstructing official duties. Yoon, who declared martial law last month, has resisted questioning and has only appeared publicly once since then. Parliament swiftly overturned the martial law declaration and impeached Yoon for rebellion, prompting parallel investigations by anti-corruption bodies and prosecutors.
Yoon’s lawyers have argued against the validity of the warrants at his residence, citing protections linked to military secrecy and questioning the authority of the investigating bodies. The anti-corruption agency, however, maintains its plans to pursue Yoon, despite the operational challenges presented by the current security situation.
The Constitutional Court is now deliberating on whether to uphold Yoon’s impeachment. With three vacancies traditionally slowing down the court process, the recent appointment of two new justices might impact the outcome, possibly tilting the decision towards upholding the impeachment. Meanwhile, the political turmoil continues to unfold against the backdrop of a nation’s divided support for the once-prosecutor turned president.
