• The impeachment trial of South Korea’s suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol begins amid significant political unrest.
• Yoon is currently evading arrest following his controversial declaration of martial law on December 3.
• Authorities are preparing a second attempt to detain Yoon, anticipating potential clashes with his security detail.
• Yoon's first court hearing was adjourned shortly after it began due to his absence.
• Political tensions escalate as Yoon’s aides warn of a civil war should forceful detainment occur.

The impeachment trial of South Korea’s suspended president, Yoon Suk Yeol, kicked off on January 14, but quickly fell into turmoil as the court adjourned minutes after starting due to Yoon's deliberate absence. This trial is critical as it seeks to decide whether to strip Yoon of his presidential powers, which were put into jeopardy following his failed martial law attempt last month, a measure that plunged South Korea into unprecedented political chaos.

Yoon has been holed up in his official residence in Seoul for weeks, reportedly evading law enforcement attempts to detain him, which his aides are likening to actions targeting a “South American drug cartel leader” as he continues to resist law enforcement efforts, including an armed standoff with his security team that prevented investigators from capturing him.

Reports indicate that Yoon’s legal representatives are engaged in discussions concerning his potential appearance at the next hearing. His chief of staff, Chung Jin-suk, has suggested that he could alternatively be questioned at a “third location” away from his fortified residence. This proposition comes amidst growing fears of a violent confrontation between Yoon's guards and law enforcement officials. Chung remarked on the volatile situation, emphasizing that any further attempts to detain Yoon could lead to “unimaginable tragedies” on the streets, where thousands of supporters have gathered outside his residence in a display of loyalty. (AP News)

As Yoon’s impeachment proceedings unfold, the Constitutional Court is also deliberating over serious allegations surrounding Yoon’s actions, including whether his martial law declaration constituted insurrection. With 180 days to reach a decision, the atmosphere remains incredibly tense as discussions for a potential arrest warrant are also underway amidst increasing opposition and escalating public outcry.

Investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) and police officials are gearing up for a renewed attempt to detain Yoon, with some hints that up to 1,000 officers could be mobilized for the operation to ensure compliance from Yoon’s armed security guards. A failure to execute the arrest warrant has previously led to a stand-off that lasted six hours, with Yoon's guards displaying a readiness to use force to prevent his detainment, showcasing both the division and turmoil embroiling South Korea’s political landscape. (BBC)

As authorities prepare, the political climate grows ever more hazardous, with warnings of potential civil unrest should the situation escalate. The next hearing is slated for January 16, where Yoon's fate will further hinge upon his participation and the court’s evaluation of the charges against him.

For ongoing updates and in-depth analysis on the situation, visit Al Jazeera.