South Korea standoff: Authorities launch second attempt to arrest president

Source: Aljazeera English January 14, 2025

In South Korea, an intense political standoff is unfolding as police attempt to execute an arrest warrant for impeached President Yun Sool.

The operation is taking place at the presidential residence in Seoul, where over 1,000 police officers are deployed. Meanwhile, thousands of Yun's supporters have formed a human chain to block the authorities.

The president, impeached last month after briefly declaring martial law, has refused to cooperate with questioning or attend his trial at the Constitutional Court. This marks the second attempt to detain him after the first failed due to strong resistance.

Investigators anticipate a prolonged operation, potentially lasting up to three days, with tensions high but the situation currently orderly. The corruption investigation office is determined to carry out the arrest, underscoring its commitment to accountability amidst a highly charged political environment.