South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Arrested Amid Martial Law Controversy

January 19, 2025

In a historic and unprecedented move, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was arrested on January 15, 2025, following his contentious declaration of martial law in December 2024. This marks the first time a sitting South Korean president has been detained while in office.

Photo: India News

Background: Declaration of Martial Law

On December 3, 2024, President Yoon imposed martial law, citing legislative gridlock and national security concerns. This decision was met with widespread criticism and allegations of power abuse, leading to significant political turmoil. Opposition parties and civil society groups condemned the move as an overreach of executive authority.

Impeachment Proceedings

In response to the martial law declaration, the South Korean National Assembly initiated impeachment proceedings against President Yoon. On December 14, 2024, a two-thirds majority voted in favor of impeachment, suspending Yoon's presidential powers pending a Constitutional Court review. During this period, Yoon confined himself to the presidential residence, refusing to cooperate with investigative authorities.

Arrest and Detention

After multiple summonses were ignored, the Seoul Western District Court issued an arrest warrant for Yoon on December 31, 2024, citing concerns over potential evidence destruction. On January 15, 2025, authorities executed the warrant, arresting Yoon at his residence. The operation involved scaling barricades and cutting through barbed wire, as supporters attempted to block law enforcement's access. Yoon was subsequently detained at the Seoul Detention Center.

Supporters Protests and Courtroom Unrest

Following Yoon's arrest, thousands of his supporters gathered outside the Seoul Western District Court, demanding his release. On January 18, 2025, after the court extended Yoon's detention by an additional 20 days, protesters stormed the courthouse, breaking police barricades, damaging property, and clashing with law enforcement. Approximately 90 individuals were arrested during the unrest. Acting President Choi Sang Mok condemned the violence, emphasizing the need to uphold democratic processes.

Legal Proceedings and Political Implications

President Yoon faces serious charges, including insurrection and abuse of power, related to his martial law declaration. If convicted, he could face significant prison time. The Constitutional Court is concurrently reviewing his impeachment, which, if upheld, would result in his formal removal from office. Yoon maintains his actions were necessary for national stability and has labeled the proceedings against him as politically motivated.

These events have deepened political divisions within South Korea, with supporters viewing Yoon as a defender of national security, while critics see his actions as a dangerous authoritarian overreach. The situation continues to evolve, with the nation's democratic institutions facing significant tests in the coming weeks.

Author: Sude Demirbaş