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South Korea’s Impeached President Defies Arrest Amid Escalating Political Crisis

The impeachment of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and his ongoing refusal to comply with detention orders have plunged the nation deeper into political turmoil. On Friday, after spending over six hours outside Yoon’s presidential residence, investigators from the country’s anti-corruption agency withdrew following resistance from his security team.

The agency reported multiple confrontations with Yoon’s security personnel and cited safety concerns as the reason for their retreat. While expressing “serious regret about the suspect’s noncompliance with legal procedures,” the agency acknowledged that Yoon’s arrest would be “virtually impossible” without cooperation from the presidential security service. Acting leader Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok has been urged to ensure the detainment warrant is executed.

Ongoing Resistance and Public Tensions

For three consecutive days, Yoon has refused to leave his residence, intensifying the standoff. His December 3 declaration of martial law, which failed, led to his impeachment and potential legal consequences, including imprisonment or possibly the death penalty.

The situation outside his compound remains tense, with clashes between opposing demonstrators. Yoon’s supporters have resisted police efforts to disperse them, fearing his arrest before the warrant’s January 6 expiration. Chanting “Protect the president!” some supporters physically blocked the entrance by lying on the ground.

“Our colleagues are lying down to prevent the CIO from entering through the main gate,” 35-year-old protester Rhee Kang-san told AFP. Reports of physical scuffles between Yoon’s supporters and anti-Yoon protesters have further escalated the tense atmosphere.

Yoon’s Defiant Stand

As the deadline nears, Yoon has ramped up his resistance, addressing messages to his base. “The Republic of Korea is currently in danger due to internal and external forces threatening its sovereignty,” Yoon declared in a statement confirmed by his lawyer. He vowed to “fight to the very end to protect this nation,” adding that he was watching the protests through a live stream.

With two heads of state impeached within a month, South Korea’s political system faces mounting uncertainty. The ongoing standoff highlights the challenges ahead as the nation grapples with its escalating political crisis.

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Source : apnews

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