South Korean President Yun Suk-yol has been officially arrested

South Korean President Yun Suk-yol has been officially arrested

South Korea's ousted President Yoon Suk-yol has been formally arrested on charges of attempted coup and abuse of power. The Seoul Western District Court issued an arrest warrant for Yoon on January 18, 2025, Yonhap news agency reported.

Yun Suk-yol's arrest was based on an investigation by the Corruption Investigation Office (SIO). SIO prosecutors will announce formal charges within 20 days.

Yoon Suk-yol's administration strongly criticized the court's decision, calling it political persecution. After the verdict was announced, Yoon's supporters stormed the Seoul Western District Court building and clashed with police. Protesters damaged the building and sprayed fire extinguishers at security officers. Police arrested 45 protesters.

During the trial, about 44,000 people gathered outside the courthouse in support of Yun. In a letter sent from prison, Yun called on all his supporters to peacefully protest.

The charges against Yun Suk-yol and the investigation into martial law could further deepen the country's political instability. The Supreme Prosecutors' Office announced that it has formed a special investigation team to investigate cases of attempts to pressure the judiciary and police.