Protests Erupt as Arrest Warrant for Impeached President Yoon Nears Expiry
As the clock ticks towards midnight on Monday, tensions are mounting in the Republic of Korea (ROK) with an arrest warrant against the impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol for alleged insurrection set to expire. Demonstrations have ignited near the presidential residence, with crowds divided between demanding Yoon’s immediate arrest and those opposing the warrant.
Yoon Suk-yeol made history as the nation’s first sitting president to face arrest, following his failed attempt to declare martial law on December 3. This unprecedented move plunged Asia’s fourth-largest economy into political turmoil, drawing international attention and concern from global allies, including the United States.
On Sunday, the Seoul Western District Court rejected an appeal from Yoon’s legal team challenging the legality and validity of the arrest warrant, as reported by Yonhap News Agency. Attempts to reach the court for comments were unsuccessful. Yoon’s defense argues that the warrant is unconstitutional, asserting that the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials (CIO), which is leading the investigation, lacks the authority under South Korean law to probe cases involving insurrection allegations.
The nation watches closely as the situation unfolds, bracing for potential implications on the country’s political stability and economic prospects. The outcome of this crisis could reshape the political landscape of the ROK and influence its role in regional affairs.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
