Violent Protests Erupt in South Korea Following President Yoon's Arrest

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South Korea is experiencing significant turmoil following the arrest of President Yoon Suk Yeol and the imposition of martial law on December 3, 2024. On a recent Sunday, hundreds of Yoon's supporters stormed the Seoul West District Court after the court extended his detention, leading to violent clashes with police. The situation escalated quickly, with demonstrators reportedly using fire extinguishers against police and causing extensive damage within the courthouse.

Authorities reported that 86 individuals were arrested during the unrest, which one Supreme Court official described as "10 to 20 times worse" than what was depicted in the media. This violence marks the first major outbreak of unrest since the controversial declaration of martial law, an attempt by Yoon to defend his administration against claims of corruption and alleged election fraud from the opposition.

As public sentiment grows increasingly polarized, Yoon's supporters staged a massive rally, with police estimating 44,000 in attendance to demand his release. However, leaders from the opposing Democratic Party condemned the violence, labeling it a threat to justice and democracy.

Interim President Choi Sang Mok and Yoon himself have both called for calm, emphasizing the importance of resolving issues within the framework of the law. However, with ongoing investigations into Yoon’s actions and the potential for renewed protests, political tensions remain high in South Korea. The Constitutional Court is set to rule on the impeachment proceedings against Yoon in the coming months, further complicating the already fraught political landscape.

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