The Situation in South Korea

Ava Cai

January 3, 2025

For the past few weeks, South Korea has seen numerous protests against President Yoon Suk Yeol for attempting rebellion, as the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials declares. This rebellion refers to President Yoon’s declaration of martial law — a temporary implementation of military authority over civilians in times of emergency — on December 3, in which he ordered troops to surround the National Assembly. President Yoon was frustrated that his policies were not being passed (the opposition controlled the parliament and thus blocked his policies), and he believed that temporary martial law was necessary. Parliament received this action poorly, reversing the statement and impeaching President Yoon eleven days later. Following, a warrant was issued on the impeached president, which was met with resistance by Yoon’s lawyers who said that by law, a search cannot be executed due to potential military secrets in President Yoon’s residence. They also disputed that police officers do not legally hold authority to investigate rebellion charges and can face arrest if done so.

Still, South Korean police refuse to give up. On Friday, the officials arrived at Yoon’s residence in an attempt to detain him. However, they were met by a circle of pro-Yoon supporters and another wall of Mr. Yoon’s Presidential Security Service. The pro-Yoon citizens waved American flags to show support for the U.S.-South Korean alliance. After an intense, six-hour standoff, the police officers and investigators realized that they were outnumbered and thus retreated. “It is to our extreme regret that the suspect did not respond to the legal proceedings,” said an investigator in a statement.

The situation surrounding Mr. Yoon is only contributing to the growing struggle in South Korea — both on the land and on the world stage. As Mr. Donald Trump is scheduled to return to the White House in late January, the once strong alliance between the United States and South Korea is holding its breath. In addition, the crash of the Jeju Air plane that killed 179 people is also taking a toll on the country and its civilians. 

The warrant issued on Mr. Yoon expires on Monday, which gives the officials a chance to try again. The situation regarding Mr. Yoon’s detention and possible insurrection remains uncertain, but many are convinced that by encouraging a political divide to protect his office and figure, Mr. Yoon is contributing to the picture that paints a crumbling democracy for South Korea.