In an unprecedented turn of events, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol became the first sitting president in the country’s history to be arrested. The dramatic scene unfolded on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at his presidential residence in central Seoul, marking a pivotal moment in South Korea’s political landscape.
A Tense Standoff
The operation to arrest President Yoon began in the early hours of Wednesday, around 3:20 AM. After a tense seven-hour standoff, the 64-year-old leader was finally taken into custody at approximately 10:30 AM. This arrest came 43 days after Yoon’s controversial imposition of martial law on December 3rd, 2024.
Unlike a previous failed attempt two weeks ago, Wednesday’s operation was carried out with minimal resistance. Anti-corruption investigators successfully breached the defense lines at the presidential residence, using ladders to scale buses that had been parked as barricades. Notably, the presidential bodyguards offered little opposition, allowing the team to secure entry without major incidents.
President’s Defiant Response
Despite his arrest, President Yoon maintained a defiant stance. In a video message, he stated, “To prevent any unfortunate bloodshed, I have decided to appear before the CIO, even though this investigation is illegal.” He further claimed that the rule of law had “completely collapsed” following his detention.
Yoon also took to social media, posting a hand-written letter insisting that the imposition of martial law was not a crime but rather an exercise of presidential authority to address a national crisis. (As seen in the featured image)
Public Reaction
The arrest sparked intense reactions from the South Korean public. Thousands of citizens took to the streets, with demonstrations both for and against the president. Yoon’s supporters rallied overnight, holding signs declaring their intention to “fight with the president.” Some were seen crying, and approximately 30 protesters even laid down on the roads in protest.
Conversely, anti-Yoon protesters celebrated the arrest, chanting “Arrest Yoon Suk Yeol!” The stark contrast in public sentiment underscores the deep political divisions within the country.
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