On January 3, South Korea witnessed an unprecedented turn of events as investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) left the presidential residence after failing to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol. The arrest warrant, issued by a Seoul court earlier that day, marked the first time in the nation’s modern history that a sitting president faced such legal action.
The CIO cited the ongoing confrontation at the presidential residence as the primary reason for their inability to execute the warrant. “The continued confrontation made it virtually impossible to carry out the arrest,” a spokesperson for the CIO stated.
The following day, January 4, waves of South Koreans flooded the streets in protest. From Seoul’s bustling avenues to the city of Daegu, citizens voiced their calls for President Yoon’s ouster. Daegu holds particular significance as it is where Yoon began his career at the public prosecutor’s office in 1994.
CGTN Stringer reporters captured the heartfelt demonstrations in Daegu. Many protesters carried banners and chanted slogans demanding accountability and transparency. One demonstrator remarked, “We are here to protect our democracy and ensure that justice is served.”
The unfolding events have gripped the nation, sparking intense discussions among political analysts, business leaders, and international observers. The implications of the attempted arrest and subsequent public unrest are expected to have far-reaching effects on South Korea’s political and economic landscape.
As the situation develops, all eyes remain on the South Korean government and its response to the growing calls for change.
Reference(s):
Stringer Dispatch: South Koreans take to the streets for Yoon's ouster
cgtn.com
