Prosecutors Call for Security Forces to Comply with Arrest Warrant
Prosecutors in South Korea have urged Acting President Choi Sang-mok to direct the country’s security forces to execute the arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol. This comes after authorities failed to carry out the arrest the previous day due to a standoff involving security forces.
Rival Protests Erupt in Seoul
On Saturday, thousands of protesters took to the streets of Seoul, holding rival rallies either calling for Yoon’s arrest or demanding that his impeachment be overturned. The protests took place outside the presidential residence and along major roads in the capital, reflecting the increasing political divide within South Korea.
Standoff at Yoon’s Residence
The protests come amid an ongoing dispute over the arrest warrant issued against Yoon for his declaration of martial law last month. On Friday, security forces, including the presidential security service and soldiers, blocked prosecutors from arresting Yoon in a tense six-hour standoff at his residence. Authorities eventually called off the operation, citing safety concerns. The court order for the arrest is set to expire on Monday, leaving the warrant in limbo.
Martial Law Declaration and Impeachment Crisis
Yoon’s December 3 martial law declaration stunned the country and led to the first-ever arrest warrant for a sitting South Korean president. This move sparked a significant political crisis. Yoon faces charges of insurrection, a crime not covered by presidential immunity, which could lead to serious consequences such as prison or even the death penalty.
Legal Challenges to the Arrest Attempt
Yoon’s legal team has strongly condemned the arrest attempt as “unlawful and invalid.” They have announced plans to take legal action in response to the failed attempt. Additionally, the police have summoned Park Chong-jun, the head of Yoon’s security service, to appear for questioning on Tuesday, according to reports by Yonhap News.
Yoon’s Supporters Defend His Leadership
Supporters of Yoon, like Kim Chul-hong, a 60-year-old advocate, argue that arresting the impeached president could undermine South Korea’s security. Kim stated, “Protecting President Yoon is vital for our country’s security against North Korea.” His supporters emphasize the importance of Yoon’s leadership in maintaining the country’s defense, particularly in light of tensions with the North.
Union Protests Blocked by Police
Meanwhile, members of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, South Korea’s largest labor union, attempted to march to Yoon’s residence to protest against him. However, their efforts were stopped by the police, who blocked their path before they could reach the compound.
The political crisis surrounding Yoon’s impeachment and arrest attempt continues to divide South Korea. As protests grow and legal challenges unfold, the situation remains tense, with both sides deeply entrenched in their views on Yoon’s leadership and future.
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