South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol has declared an unwavering commitment to fight against an impending arrest as he faces serious allegations surrounding his declaration of martial law on December 3. In a letter to supporters gathered near his residence, Yoon stated, “I will fight until the end to protect this country together with you,” showcasing his determination amid mounting tensions (source: SCMP).

The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) has requested an arrest warrant for Yoon, who failed to comply with repeated summons for questioning regarding his attempt to impose martial law, perceived by many as an act of insurrection. This could make him the first South Korean president to be detained on such grounds (source: Reuters).

As tensions rose, supporters of Yoon clashed with his opponents outside his residence. Yoon’s legal team has labeled the arrest warrant as “illegal and invalid,” claiming that the CIO exceeded its authority under South Korean law (source: SCMP).

With a deadline for the arrest warrant set for January 6, investigators are mobilizing police and personnel to ensure a smooth execution of the warrant despite potential resistance from Yoon’s supporters. CIO chief Oh Dong-woon emphasized that any attempts to obstruct the arrest could result in prosecution under official duties interference laws.

The current political crisis has left South Korea in turmoil, with Yoon’s impeachment trial ongoing in the Constitutional Court. If the court upholds his impeachment, a new presidential election is to be held within 60 days, further complicating the nation's political landscape.

Yoon’s situation is unprecedented in South Korea, where political and military figures have previously faced legal challenges, but none like the current crisis involving a sitting president. As preparations for the possible arrest continue, both supporters and opponents are bracing for escalating confrontations in the coming days.