South Korean President Yoon Detained Over Criminal Charges

South Korean authorities have detained President Yoon Suk Yeol for questioning over allegations of leading an insurrection tied to his brief declaration of martial law last month.

Reports indicate that the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) executed a warrant to detain Yoon around 10:30 a.m. local time on Wednesday. In a video message recorded at his residence in central Seoul, Yoon stated, “To prevent an unfortunate and violent incident, I decided to appear before the CIO even though I believe the investigation is illegal.” He further criticized the country’s judicial system, claiming, “The rule of law has completely collapsed in this country,” as reported by Chronicles Reporters.

The controversy began on December 3, when Yoon declared martial law, citing alleged threats from “anti-state” forces. This decision was widely condemned and swiftly overturned, leading to his impeachment by the National Assembly on December 14, with 204 votes in favor and 85 against. The Constitutional Court is now reviewing the case to determine if Yoon will be permanently removed from office. The court’s decision is expected within 180 days.

Following his impeachment, Yoon remained confined to the presidential residence in Seoul, resisting multiple attempts by authorities to detain him. The first effort on January 3 ended in a standoff when the Presidential Security Service blocked the authorities’ access. Yoon’s supporters have since staged protests against his detention, with clashes between them and law enforcement resulting in injuries and raising fears of further violence.

In a second attempt on January 15, police units surrounded the presidential residence at dawn, setting up roadblocks to prevent interference from supporters. After hours of negotiations, Yoon’s legal team announced that he had agreed to surrender voluntarily to avoid escalating tensions. He was taken into custody without resistance, though concerns persist about potential unrest.

Defending his actions, Yoon maintains that his declaration of martial law was a necessary step to protect the nation. In a January 1 address to his supporters, he pledged, “I will fight alongside you to the very end to protect this nation.”

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