Blinken conveys assurance in the democratic procedures of South Korea

South Korean authorities have requested an extension of the arrest warrant for impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, coinciding with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken‘s visit, during which he expressed confidence in South Korea‘s management of the ongoing political crisis.

Investigators looking into Yoon’s martial law declaration from December 3 were unable to execute the arrest warrant on Friday, as security personnel formed a barrier to prevent access to the president.

This arrest warrant, marking a historic first for a sitting president, was set to expire at midnight on Monday (1500 GMT). In a statement released on Monday, the investigating authorities confirmed they had sought a court extension for the warrant but did not disclose the duration of the requested extension.

Yoon, who faces impeachment due to his martial law announcement, is also under investigation for potential insurrection. The brief six-hour martial law period has thrown one of Asia’s most robust democracies into a state of uncertainty, resulting in the impeachment of both Yoon and the prime minister, who assumed the role of acting president.

Yoon’s actions have drawn criticism from U.S. officials, including Deputy Secretary Blinken’s deputy, Kurt Campbell, who described the decision as “badly misjudged.” Following his discussions with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, Blinken noted that Washington had conveyed “serious concerns” regarding Yoon’s actions during the martial law period. However, he emphasized that the developments since then have showcased South Korea’s reputation as a resilient democracy, which remains “remarkably strong,” as stated during a press conference.

Blinken stated that the ongoing response is characterized by a peaceful approach that aligns fully with constitutional principles and the rule of law.

Yoon faced impeachment by parliament on December 14, resulting in his suspension from presidential responsibilities. The Constitutional Court is currently reviewing the case to determine whether he will be permanently removed from office or reinstated.

The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), which is spearheading the criminal investigation into Yoon, has issued a request to the police to take over the execution of the arrest warrant. A police representative indicated during a news briefing that there appears to be a legal contention regarding this transfer, and discussions with the CIO are planned.

According to Yonhap news agency, a police official confirmed that the arrest warrant will now be executed by the police joint investigation team in collaboration with the CIO. Yoon’s legal team contends that the CIO’s anti-corruption unit lacks the legal authority under South Korean law to investigate matters related to insurrection.

On Monday, Seok Dong-hyeon, a lawyer advising Yoon, remarked that the attempt to transfer the execution of the arrest warrant essentially acknowledges the CIO’s investigation and the warrant as “illegal.” This unprecedented move to arrest a sitting president has sparked competing rallies, with Yoon’s supporters echoing “Stop the Steal” slogans reminiscent of those used by Donald Trump’s voters, while others demand Yoon’s accountability.

On Monday, a faction of Yoon’s staunch supporters, led by Christian pastor Jun Kwang-hoon, held a press conference, framing the struggle for Yoon as an “international battle” for freedom. They lamented, “Sadly, there’s no Fox News in Korea,” alluding to the American cable news network favored by Trump supporters.