South Korea’s president faces raid over martial law crisis

December 11, 2024 – South Korean police have raided President Yoon Suk Yeol’s office as part of an investigation into his controversial martial law declaration last week, a decision that has sparked domestic outrage and raised alarm among international allies.

The investigation centres on whether Yoon’s actions, reportedly backed by senior officials in his administration, constitute insurrection—a charge carrying no presidential immunity and punishable by death under South Korean law. Analysts say this marks one of the most dramatic legal challenges to a sitting president in the country’s modern history.

“The investigative team carried out raids at the presidential office, the National Police Agency, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, and the National Assembly Security Service,” said a spokesperson for the probe. The unprecedented operation underscores the severity of the allegations.

Adding to the tension, Yoon’s former defence minister, Kim Yong-hyun, attempted suicide while in custody at a Seoul detention centre on Tuesday. Kim has been detained since Sunday and is the first official arrested over the December 3 martial law decree. His charges include “engaging in critical duties during an insurrection” and “abuse of authority to obstruct the exercise of rights.”

The incident has left many questioning the administration’s approach. Opposition leaders have called Yoon’s actions a betrayal of democratic principles, citing the martial law declaration as an unnecessary overreach. “This administration has crossed every line to maintain power,” one opposition MP said during a televised address. Meanwhile, civil society groups are demanding full transparency in the investigation.

International allies, including the United States and Japan, have voiced unease about the unfolding crisis. Observers warn the turmoil could undermine South Korea’s role as a stable partner in regional security arrangements.

President Yoon, defending his decision, has described the martial law declaration as a “temporary but vital measure” against unnamed national security threats. Despite growing pressure, he has yet to publicly address the raids or the allegations swirling around his administration. As the investigation progresses, his leadership faces its sternest test yet.