SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korean police suspended an attempt to arrest suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol Friday after a six-hour standoff at his residence, where security staff and supporters blocked 150 officers from executing the warrant.
The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) sought to arrest Yoon, who faces investigation for abuse of power and inciting insurrection over his December martial law declaration. Half the arrest team entered the residence but faced resistance from presidential security officers and a military unit protecting Seoul.
“Considering the situation at the site, as long as the security service continues to stand guard, the arrest is practically impossible,” the CIO said, announcing plans to request intervention from the acting president. The warrant expires January 6.
Pro-Yoon supporters, who had camped outside for days, celebrated the failed arrest. Some carried “Stop the Steal” signs, echoing U.S. protesters after Donald Trump’s 2020 election loss. The presidential security service accused investigators of trespassing and injuring staff members.
The drama deepens South Korea’s political crisis, which began with Yoon’s December 3 martial law declaration. Parliament impeached Yoon on December 14, then impeached his replacement, Acting President Han Duck-soo, two weeks later.
Prosecutors also indicted army chief Park An-su and special forces commander Kwak Jong-geun on insurrection charges Friday. Both face trial in custody.
Yoon’s legal team, led by attorney Yoon Gab-keun, challenges the CIO’s authority to arrest him. Opposition leader Park Chan-dae criticized Yoon for breaking his promise to take responsibility for the failed martial law attempt.
The CIO, created four years ago following public anger over former president Park Geun-hye’s impeachment, faces questions about its jurisdiction. Experts note that Yoon, a former chief prosecutor, likely knows legal loopholes available for his defense.
