S. Korean investigators seek arrest warrant for Yoon

Seoul

South Korean investigators have sought an arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol following his failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2024. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) filed the request with the Seoul Western District Court after Yoon was detained for questioning on Jan 15.

This marks a historic moment as it is the first time in South Korea's constitutional history that an arrest warrant has been requested for a sitting president. Yoon faces charges of leading an insurrection and abuse of power, with investigators citing the severity of the alleged crimes and the possibility of recurrence as reasons for seeking the warrant.

Despite being detained, Yoon has refused to appear for questioning. His legal team filed a petition challenging his detention, but the Seoul Central District Court rejected the request on Thursday, keeping him in custody.

Yoon's supporters gathered outside the court overnight to protest his detention. Tensions rose when a man was detained after pushing a court employee, and protesters moved to a nearby park to continue their rally. The legal battle continues as investigators press forward with the case, which involves the president’s late-night martial law declaration on December 3.