Protests Erupt as South Korean Court Extends Yoon's Detention
In a dramatic escalation of political tensions, a group of hundreds supporting South Korea's impeached leader, Yoon Suk Yeol, forcefully entered a court building on Sunday morning following a ruling to extend his detention. This incident, which involved vandalism and clashes with law enforcement, has been denounced by the acting government as 'unimaginable' in a democratic society.
Yoon, who on December 3, 2024, declared martial law in a controversial move, is facing serious allegations of insurrection. His detention marked a historic moment as he became the first sitting president in South Korea to be arrested. The court's decision to prolong his custody was announced around 3 a.m. on Sunday, prompting an immediate reaction from his supporters.
Witnesses reported that protesters overwhelmed police barricades, using fire extinguishers against officers stationed at the entrance. Once inside, they caused extensive damage to office equipment and furniture, as captured in various live streams shared on social media platforms.
Authorities later confirmed that 46 individuals had been arrested during the unrest, with police committing to identify and detain others involved in the violence. Acting President Choi Sang-mok expressed deep regret over the incident, emphasizing the need for heightened security measures at public gatherings.
Reports indicated that nine police officers sustained injuries amid the chaos, while around 40 others experienced minor injuries during the altercations. Emergency responders confirmed the injuries, although police did not provide immediate details about the officers affected.
Yoon's legal team has argued that his arrest was unlawful, claiming the warrant was issued outside the proper jurisdiction and questioning the investigating team's authority. The former prosecutor has thus far refused to cooperate with investigators, who fear he may destroy evidence pertinent to the ongoing inquiry.
Following a lengthy court hearing, a judge granted an extension to Yoon's detention for up to 20 days, citing concerns that he may interfere with the investigation. Under South Korean law, individuals held under such warrants are required to undergo physical examinations, have mugshots taken, and wear prison uniforms. Currently, Yoon is being held in a solitary confinement cell at the Seoul Detention Center.
In the backdrop of these events, the Constitutional Court is deliberating Yoon's possible permanent removal from office, as initiated by the National Assembly following an impeachment vote on December 14, 2024. The political landscape remains fraught, with Yoon's conservative People Power Party expressing disappointment over the court's decision, while the opposition Democratic Party views it as a necessary step towards restoring order.
Support for Yoon's party has seen a resurgence in recent weeks, recovering to a narrow lead over the opposition in public opinion polls, despite the turmoil surrounding his leadership. Meanwhile, thousands gathered peacefully in downtown Seoul on Sunday to voice their support for the embattled president, amid ongoing protests opposing his actions and the political crisis.
