Impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol avoided arrest as a warrant’s deadline expired on Monday, but anti-corruption investigators have requested an extension to secure his detention. Yoon has repeatedly refused to cooperate with the investigation into last month’s failed martial law decree and remains under heavy guard at his residence.
The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) confirmed late Monday that it had refiled the arrest warrant with the Seoul Western District Court, seeking more time to apprehend Yoon. A decision on the new warrant is pending, but investigators remain optimistic.
Efforts to detain Yoon have been stymied by the presence of hundreds of security personnel. Authorities have warned that members of the Presidential Security Service may face arrest for obstructing justice.
If detained, Yoon would be the first sitting South Korean president to face arrest. He could face severe penalties, including life imprisonment or the death sentence, for insurrection. Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court has set January 14 for Yoon’s impeachment trial.
