South Korea’s Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) announced on Monday, January 13, that it has formally requested cooperation from the defense ministry and the Presidential Security Service as it prepares for a second attempt to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk-Yeol.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the CIO sent official letters late Sunday, urging compliance and warning of potential legal consequences for obstructing their efforts.
In its communication to the defense ministry, the CIO cautioned: “Any soldier obstructing the execution of arrest warrants or searches of the presidential residence could face criminal charges or claims for damages if human or material harm occurs.”
A similar notice was issued to the Presidential Security Service, warning that personnel who hinder the execution of warrants could face severe repercussions, including loss of public servant status, restrictions on future employment, and reduced pension benefits.
However, the CIO assured that security personnel who refuse illegal orders to obstruct investigators would not face penalties or disadvantages.
President Yoon has remained in his heavily guarded hillside compound in Seoul, protected by his Presidential Security Service and surrounded by hundreds of conservative supporters who have vowed to shield him.
Yoon has dismissed the arrest warrant as “illegal and invalid” and insists he acted lawfully when declaring martial law. Addressing his supporters, he stated his intention to “fight until the end.”
Concerns among Yoon’s supporters are mounting that he may be detained if he leaves his residence to attend the impeachment hearings.
