SEOUL, South Korea — South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol was formally arrested early Sunday, days after being apprehended at his presidential compound. Yoon faces potential imprisonment over his controversial declaration of martial law, which has plunged the nation into a period of serious political crisis.

The decision to arrest Yoon comes after an eight-hour hearing at the Seoul Western District Court, where law enforcement cited concerns that he could tamper with evidence. Following his November 3 decree—a move seen as a last resort to break legislative gridlock—Yoon now risks a prolonged period of custody that could extend for months.

Violent protests erupted at the court, with supporters clashing with police and causing significant property damage. Protesters wielded metal beams and police shields in a chaotic scene that resulted in nearly 90 arrests among his fervent backers.

Yoon's martial law declaration was swiftly voted down by lawmakers, prompting his impeachment on December 14. He is now implicated in rebellion charges, which, if substantiated, could lead to sentences ranging from life imprisonment to the death penalty under South Korean law.

The overarching political turmoil is palpable, with the nation grappling with its most significant crisis since the late 1980s. Yoon's ousting has polarized the public, bringing to light deep divisions between his supporters and opposition parties, particularly the Democratic Party, which maintains a legislative majority.

During the hearing, Yoon and his legal team argued for his release, maintaining that his martial law order was a necessary measure to ensure governance. Yoon's lawyers assert that the charges against him lack merit and plan to challenge the court's arrest warrant. However, the court's ruling to extend his detention for up to 20 days means prosecutors have time to formulate charges.

Yoon's supporters rallied outside the court throughout his proceedings, echoing calls for his freedom amid fears that Yoon's persistent defiance could lead to greater unrest. Urging calm, Yoon's party has expressed regret over the circumstances of his arrest, with some politicians calling for public order amidst escalating tensions.

As the situation evolves, experts suggest Yoon's political fate may now hinge upon the Constitutional Court's eventual ruling on the impeachment case, which could lead to formal elections within 60 days should the court side against him.

The future of South Korean governance hangs in the balance as Yoon's legal and political battles unfold, with his adherence to the rule of law actively challenged.