An arrest warrant has been issued for South Korea's impeached president, Yoon, marking him as the country's first sitting president to face such a situation.

Key Developments

Arrest Challenges: Investigators have until 6 January to execute the warrant, with the option to request an extension. However, executing the warrant could prove difficult due to potential resistance from Yoon’s security team and protesters.

Security Roadblocks: The presidential security service has previously obstructed court-approved searches at the presidential office grounds and Yoon's private residence.

Historical Precedent: South Korean authorities have, in the past, abandoned attempts to arrest prominent figures when physical resistance from aides and supporters escalated.

Legal Disputes

Yoon’s legal team argues the arrest is unlawful, claiming the president’s declaration of martial law falls within his constitutional powers. Despite facing three prior summonses, Yoon’s lawyer, Yun Gap-geun, attributed his absence to “legitimate concerns.”

Yoon has defended his actions and vowed to “fight to the end” while maintaining he will face his legal and political responsibilities. His current whereabouts remain undisclosed, and he is barred from leaving the country.

Political Context

Suspended Duties: Yoon was suspended on 14 December following an impeachment vote by lawmakers. His removal depends on the constitutional court’s decision, requiring support from six of its nine judges. Currently, only six judges are seated, meaning a single rejection would nullify the impeachment.

Opposition Efforts: Opposition lawmakers sought to improve impeachment odds by nominating three additional judges, but their proposal was vetoed by Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Han, acting as interim leader after Yoon’s suspension, was subsequently impeached by opposition lawmakers.

Further Tensions: The opposition is now targeting Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok, who serves as both acting president and acting prime minister.

The situation underscores a deepening political crisis in South Korea, with far-reaching implications for the nation's leadership and governance.