In an unprecedented turn of events, South Korean investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) left the presidential residence on January 3 without arresting impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol. The failed attempt marked the first time in the nation’s history that an arrest warrant was issued against a sitting president.
The CIO cited ongoing confrontation at the residence as the reason for their inability to execute the arrest warrant issued by a Seoul court on Tuesday. The stalemate has ignited varied reactions among the South Korean populace, leading to rallies across the country.
On January 4, citizens took to the streets of Daegu—where President Yoon began his career at the public prosecutor’s office in 1994—to express their views. Reporters captured the diverse opinions of the protesters.
Na Je-hyun, a cultural planner participating in the rally, voiced strong support for the arrest. “Arresting Yoon is necessary because he is the leader of the rebellion,” Na stated, emphasizing a desire for accountability at the highest levels of government.
Conversely, a retiree surnamed Park expressed deep concern over the attempted arrest. “Arresting the president is nonsense,” Park remarked. “Such things should not happen in our country because the president has the right to declare martial law.”
The unexpected development has underscored deep divisions within South Korean society regarding presidential authority and the rule of law. As the situation unfolds, both national and international observers are closely monitoring the implications for the country’s political stability and democratic processes.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
