South Korea's Yoon Faces Extended Detention in Insurrection Probe, Supporters Rally Behind Him

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Faces Extended Detention in Insurrection Probe

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, currently under investigation for alleged insurrection, faces a potential extension of his detention as investigators seek a court order to hold him for up to 20 days. This comes after Mr. Yoon became the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested in a criminal probe related to his short-lived declaration of martial law in early December.

The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) argues for the extended detention due to "the gravity of the crime." The Seoul Western District Court will review the request on Saturday afternoon.

Meanwhile, Mr. Yoon remains defiant, refusing to be questioned by investigators. His legal team maintains that he has already stated his position and sees no need for further questioning. They also deny accusations of masterminding an insurrection, a crime punishable by life imprisonment or even the death penalty in South Korea.

The suspended president's arrest and ongoing legal battle have sparked political polarization in South Korea. While opinion polls show most South Koreans support his impeachment, his supporters have rallied behind him, boosting the approval rating of his People Power Party (PPP).

The PPP's approval rating has risen to 39%, surpassing the main opposition Democratic Party for the first time since August. This increase is attributed to Mr. Yoon and his party's messaging to supporters, which has resonated amidst the deepening political divisions.

Mr. Yoon's arrest also led to the arrest of Kim Sung-hoon, acting chief of the Presidential Security Service, for thwarting investigators' initial attempt to arrest the president. Mr. Kim maintains that he was carrying out his "legitimate security duties" and denies allegations of using weapons against investigators.

While the United States has criticized Mr. Yoon's declaration of martial law, concerns remain about the potential for North Korea to exploit the political situation in South Korea. North Korean state media reported on Mr. Yoon's arrest, citing foreign media and criticizing his actions as prioritizing individual interests over national order.