Thousands protest in Seoul as suspended President Yoon defies arrest warrant

Thousands of rival protesters rallied in South Korea’s capital Saturday, a day after authorities failed to arrest suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol for imposing a martial law decree that led to his impeachment.

Since his impeachment last month, Yoon has refused to leave the presidential residence, fortified by loyal security forces.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol delivers a speech to declare martial law in Seoul, South Korea, December 3, 2024. File/Reuters

Efforts to detain him on insurrection charges—a rare crime not covered by presidential immunity—have intensified, creating a deep political divide.

Protests and clashes

Crowds gathered near the residence in Seoul, demanding either Yoon’s arrest or the invalidation of his impeachment. Among them was Kim Chul-hong, a supporter who linked Yoon’s leadership to national security.

A woman waves South Korea's flag during a rally to support Yoon, who remains inside the presidential compound.AFP

“Protecting President Yoon means safeguarding our country’s security against threats from North Korea,” Kim told AFP.

Meanwhile, South Korea’s largest trade union members attempted to march on the residence but clashed with police. Two protesters were arrested, and several others were injured in the confrontation.

Yoon’s arrest, which would make him the first sitting South Korean president detained, has been stalled by fierce resistance. On Friday, a tense standoff saw investigators and police blocked by 200 soldiers and security personnel.

Police officers set up barricades in front of people taking part in a rally to support South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol.AFP

Investigators called off the arrest attempt, citing safety concerns. With the warrant set to expire Monday, they may make another attempt or reapply for authorization.

Experts suggest that legal challenges may delay further action until the Constitutional Court rules on Yoon’s impeachment.

US concerns

The crisis has drawn international attention, with the U.S. urging stability. Outgoing Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to visit Seoul on Monday, focusing on bilateral relations and the threat posed by North Korea.

Yoon, meanwhile, remains defiant. Addressing his supporters earlier this week, he vowed to fight “to the very end.” The Constitutional Court has scheduled his impeachment trial to begin on January 14.

The outcome of these proceedings could define South Korea’s political future, as the nation grapples with escalating unrest and uncertainty.