Sat Jan 04 12:19:39 UTC 2025: ## Prosecutors Push for Impeached South Korean President’s Arrest Amidst Mass Protests
**Seoul, South Korea** – Tensions soared in Seoul on Saturday as thousands of South Koreans staged rival demonstrations for and against impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol, a day after a dramatic failed arrest attempt. Prosecutors are pressing acting President Choi Sang-mok to order the presidential security service to comply with the warrant, which expires Monday.
The standoff Friday, which saw a six-hour siege at Yoon’s residence involving pushing and shoving, ended with investigators suspending the arrest due to safety concerns. Yoon, facing insurrection charges—a crime not covered by presidential immunity—could face prison or even the death penalty. His lawyers denounced the attempt as unlawful.
The arrest warrant stems from Yoon’s controversial declaration of martial law last month, an unprecedented move that triggered the impeachment proceedings. The police have summoned the chief of the presidential security service for questioning.
While Saturday’s protests remained largely peaceful, Al Jazeera reported growing public frustration. Supporters fear Yoon’s arrest would jeopardize South Korea’s alliances, while opponents demand accountability. Clashes between police and protestors from the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions resulted in arrests and injuries.
The Constitutional Court is set to begin Yoon’s impeachment trial on January 14th, regardless of his presence. Prosecutors may attempt another arrest before the warrant expires or seek a new one. The situation highlights the deep political division gripping South Korea.
First Piper 