Sat Jan 11 06:26:03 UTC 2025: **Seoul Braces for Mass Protests as Investigators Prepare Second Arrest Attempt for Impeached President Yoon**
SEOUL, South Korea (January 11, 2025) – South Korea’s capital, Seoul, is bracing for large-scale rival demonstrations on Saturday as investigators prepare a second attempt to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. Thousands are expected to take to the streets, with pro- and anti-Yoon factions staging separate rallies in sub-zero temperatures.
The planned arrests stem from Yoon’s controversial attempt to impose martial law in December, an action that triggered the country’s worst political crisis in decades. Last week, a standoff ensued when presidential guards blocked investigators from arresting Yoon. This incident led to the resignation of Yoon’s presidential security chief, Park, who is currently under questioning. The acting chief, Kim Seong-hun, refused a summons, risking arrest.
Anti-Yoon protesters, like student Kim Min-ji, demand accountability and Yoon’s removal from office, criticizing the police and the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) for their perceived inaction. Conversely, supporters like Su Yo-hahn defend Yoon’s actions, claiming the martial law declaration was justified and essential to national security.
Yoon faces criminal charges of insurrection, a crime not covered by presidential immunity, potentially leading to imprisonment or even the death penalty. A successful arrest would make him the first sitting South Korean president to be apprehended. The CIO has vowed a thorough second attempt and warned against obstruction. Meanwhile, Yoon’s compound has been fortified with increased security measures.
Separate from the insurrection probe, Yoon’s impeachment trial is set to begin on January 14th, regardless of his presence. While his ruling party’s approval ratings have been rising amidst the crisis, opposition parties are pushing for the expulsion of a lawmaker linked to a controversial far-right youth group. The ongoing political turmoil continues to grip South Korea.
First Piper 