What Awaits South Korea's President Following Historic Arrest?

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has become the first sitting president in the nation’s history to be arrested, following an extensive operation involving approximately 3,000 law enforcement and defense personnel. The arrest was executed by the

Investigation Office for (CIO) on January 15, 2025.

Background of the Arrest

President Yoon faced allegations of declaring

on December 3, 2024. Despite being three times for questioning, he ignored the requests. An earlier attempt to arrest him on January 3, 2025, at his residence in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, failed after a six-hour with his security team. Authorities then strengthened their strategy, resulting in a successful operation.

Investigation Process

After the arrest, President Yoon was taken to the CIO

in Gwacheon for . The questioning, led by CIO Deputy Director Lee Jae-seung, included a 200-page investigation document and was attended by Yoon's . Authorities have 48 hours to seek a formal , potentially extending his detention for up to 20 days.

Political Reactions

The arrest sparked significant controversy. Supporters of Yoon criticized the arrest as excessive, while opposition parties highlighted the administration's inefficiencies. The presidential office expressed concerns, calling the arrest a "serious threat" to the presidency.

President Yoon, impeached by parliament on December 14, 2024, has largely remained at his residence since then.