Photo credit: Yoon Suk Yeol

A dramatic standoff is unfolding at the presidential residence in South Korea as investigators try to execute a detention warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. The warrant stems from charges of insurrection and abuse of power linked to Yoon’s controversial attempt to impose martial law last month.

According to the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), investigators began their attempt to execute the warrant, but they were met with resistance. A military unit, believed to be from the Capital Defense Command, blocked their entry into the residence building. As tensions mount, it’s clear that this is no ordinary operation.

The CIO has until Monday to arrest Yoon, but the situation has been complicated by thousands of his supporters rallying outside the residence, fiercely protesting his impeachment and blocking the arrest. In recent days, police have had to forcibly disperse some of these crowds, making it a delicate situation for everyone involved.

Timing is key, as investigators are wary of facing even larger crowds if they try to act over the weekend. However, waiting until Monday would push them up against the deadline.

A team of 30 CIO agents and 120 police officers are involved in executing the warrant, with half of the police force stationed outside the compound. In the event of interference from the Presidential Security Service or supporters, police have warned they will arrest anyone obstructing their duties.

If the arrest goes through, Yoon would be taken for questioning before being detained at the Seoul Detention Center. The CIO will then have 48 hours to either formalize the arrest or release him.

It’s a high-stakes situation that continues to unfold, and the country is watching closely as events develop.