Thousands Take to the Streets in Seoul Amid Political Turmoil Over Impeached President

KRKorea|

Tens of thousands of South Koreans gathered in Seoul on Saturday, voicing their support and opposition to the suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol, following a foiled attempt to arrest him. The protests come in the wake of a political crisis that has gripped the country since Yoon was impeached for imposing a brief martial law decree.

Yoon, who remains under the protection of numerous security personnel at his presidential residence, faces serious criminal charges, including insurrection. If apprehended, he would become the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested. Supporters argue that his arrest could jeopardize national security, particularly concerning relations with the United States and Japan.

On the other hand, demonstrators opposing Yoon, led by members of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, attempted to march to his residence but were thwarted by police. The situation escalated into a confrontation, resulting in injuries and arrests among union members.

The Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials had aimed to execute an arrest warrant but abandoned the attempt due to safety concerns amid chaotic scenes. Investigators now face a looming deadline for the warrant to be executed by Monday while also navigating the upcoming constitutional court trial regarding Yoon’s impeachment set to start on January 14.

Legal analysts suggest that another arrest attempt may hinge on court decisions about Yoon's impeachment status. As the political landscape remains volatile, the current U.S. Secretary of State is expected to visit Seoul on Monday to discuss U.S.-South Korea relations, underscoring the international implications of the ongoing crisis.

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