Supporters of South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol staged a sit-in outside his Hannam-dong residence on Thursday, blocking law enforcement’s efforts to execute an unprecedented arrest warrant. Protesters blocked access to the residence, while some formed human chains and lay on the ground in defiance of police orders.

Law enforcement, including riot police, maintained a cautious stance, refraining from using force to disperse the crowd amid heightened concerns over potential clashes. The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials has indicated plans to attempt the warrant’s execution on Friday. The warrant remains valid until Monday, Jan. 6.

WHY IT MATTERS

The standoff tests South Korea’s constitutional system as the first arrest warrant issued for a sitting president. Its outcome will set a precedent for how the judiciary and law enforcement address high-ranking officials accused of serious crimes, including insurrection.

The presence of many elderly protesters heightens the risk of accidents or health-related issues, particularly during crowd surges or confrontations with law enforcement. Such incidents could inflame tensions, especially among Yoon’s conservative supporters.

Prolonged resistance or clashes threaten to deepen political instability, compounding South Korea’s already fragile economic outlook. The government has forecast sub-2% growth for 2025, warning that extended political uncertainty could weaken domestic demand and deter foreign investment.