South Korea's political crisis deepened on Wednesday (January 15, 2025) as President Yoon Suk Yeol was detained by the nation's anti-corruption agency. The dramatic arrest, which followed weeks of defiance by Yoon, took place at his Hannam-dong residence in Seoul.

A fleet of black SUVs escorted by police was seen leaving the presidential compound shortly after hundreds of investigators and law enforcement officers entered the premises in the early morning. This marked the second attempt by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials to bring Yoon into custody after their initial efforts were thwarted by the presidential security service on January 3.

The detention stems from Yoon's imposition of martial law on December 3, 2024, which he defended as a necessary step to counter what he described as an “anti-state” opposition. Critics, however, have accused Yoon of using martial law to suppress dissent and bypass legislative checks on his administration.

Investigators have charged Yoon with potential rebellion, alleging that his actions undermined democratic processes. His lawyers, who negotiated with authorities for hours during the standoff, argued that Yoon was willing to voluntarily appear for questioning. However, officials dismissed this proposal, citing his repeated disregard for prior summons.

Yoon's detention marks a historic moment in South Korean politics, as it raises questions about governance, accountability, and the balance of power. The joint investigation involving police and military agencies continues to probe the implications of Yoon's controversial actions.