South Korea is facing turmoil following the violent invasion of a courthouse by supporters of detained President Yoon Suk Yeol, who recently declared martial law. This incident marks a significant escalation in political unrest since his arrest for alleged corruption. As tensions rise, both Yoon and interim president Choi Sang Mok have called for calm, but the ongoing impeachment proceedings and investigations into martial law are likely to provoke further protests and unrest in the polarized political landscape.
Unrest in South Korea Following Martial Law
South Korea is reeling from a series of shocking events following the brief implementation of martial law. Just moments after the Seoul West District Court sanctioned the extension of President Yoon Suk Yeol’s detention at 2:59 AM local time on a Sunday, a mob of several hundred supporters violently invaded the courthouse, causing significant damage. Police reported regaining control of the situation by six in the morning, but the damage had already been done.
The conservative newspaper “Chosun Ilbo” described the occurrence as “three hours of chaos in the court.” Footage captured on television depicted demonstrators discharging fire extinguishers at the police, breaking down doors, and vandalizing offices. However, Chun Dae Yup from the Supreme Court remarked that the reality was far more severe than what was shown on TV, labeling it a violation of the rule of law and “a serious crime.” A total of 86 individuals were arrested at the scene.
Rising Tensions Amid Political Turmoil
This incident marks the first significant outbreak of violence since President Yoon unexpectedly declared martial law on December 3, 2024. His attempt to dissolve Parliament was short-lived and peaceful. Following his arrest last week, becoming the first sitting president to be detained, tensions have surged. Yoon has dismissed the investigations by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials (CIO) as unlawful, refusing to provide testimony even while in custody. In a handwritten statement, he claimed to be defending liberal democracy against perceived threats and to uncover alleged electoral fraud from the spring 2024 parliamentary elections.
The opposition Democratic Party, having secured an absolute majority during those elections, has since been obstructing Yoon’s administration. Despite numerous claims regarding electoral fraud, solid evidence remains elusive, drawing parallels to the unfounded fraud allegations made by former U.S. President Donald Trump concerning the 2020 elections.
Yoon’s right-wing supporters appear to maintain their loyalty, with police estimating that around 44,000 rallied outside the courthouse on Saturday to protest against his impeachment and rally for his release. Emotions escalated rapidly into violence that evening. Lee Jae Myung, the leader of the Democratic Party, condemned the riots as “inexcusable acts” that threaten justice and democracy.
Both interim president Choi Sang Mok and Yoon have now called for calm. Choi expressed regret over the violence, urging a thorough police investigation to hold those responsible accountable. Yoon, from his place in custody, appealed for peaceful expression of opinions and voiced his dismay at the youth involvement in the riots, fearing that resorting to violence could adversely affect both the nation and individuals.
Supreme Court Judge Chun also emphasized the need for peace, acknowledging the divided public sentiment but asserting that issues should be resolved through constitutional court proceedings to protect the integrity of the nation.
Future Uncertain Amidst Political Strife
Whether these calls for peace will quell the rising political tensions in South Korea remains uncertain. The landscape is polarized, and the legal proceedings regarding martial law and impeachment are likely to incite further protests from both Yoon’s supporters and opponents. Following Yoon’s arrest, the CIO is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the martial law declaration, with an interrogation deadline set for January 26 before the case transitions to prosecution.
It is anticipated that prosecutors will file formal charges against Yoon within ten days. This looming legal battle may trigger additional demonstrations in support of Yoon’s refusal to cooperate. The former Attorney General continues to contest the investigations and the impeachment process.
The impeachment proceedings against Yoon are ongoing, with the Constitutional Court set to rule on Parliament’s request within the next 140 days. A definitive removal from office will occur only if six out of the nine judges agree on the impeachment. If successful, a new presidential election would follow sixty days post-decision, with hearings already underway. As political factions prepare for a potential presidential campaign in May, the situation in South Korea remains dynamic and deeply concerning.