South Korea is grappling with a deepening political crisis following a tense six-hour standoff between investigators and impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol at his official residence in Seoul.
Authorities attempted to detain Yoon under allegations related to a controversial martial law decree, which has intensified political unrest in the country.
Yoon, who faces an arrest warrant, resisted the efforts to take him into custody, remaining inside his residence with the protection of his supporters and security personnel.
The standoff ended without an arrest, leaving the political crisis unresolved and tensions running high.
The investigation into Yoon stems from his brief imposition of martial law, a decree that was quickly reversed after national and international criticism. The move triggered protests and led to calls for Yoon’s impeachment.
Just last month, South Korea’s parliament impeached him, making him the second president in the nation’s recent history to face such a downfall in under a month.
The crisis has left South Korea’s government paralyzed. Several presidential aides have offered to resign, further destabilizing the administration.
Yoon Suk Yeol, who was elected president in May 2022 after a career as a prosecutor, has faced numerous controversies during his tenure.