The South Korean Presidential Security Service (PSS) released an official statement on Sunday addressing its decision not to allow the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) to execute an arrest warrant against President Yoon Suk-yeol on Jan. 3. The PSS emphasized its mandate to ensure the absolute safety of the president, regardless of political ideology or legal proceedings. The statement defended the decision as a lawful and necessary measure to uphold the dignity of the presidency and the nation’s reputation, citing concerns over procedural irregularities in the warrant and its potential international implications.

The PSS clarified that the refusal to permit the warrant’s execution was not an act of obstruction but a reasoned decision aligned with the PSS’ core mission. It also condemned allegations that it has become a “private militia” or that it obstructed justice through physical confrontation, asserting that no violence or conflicts occurred during the standoff.