South Korea’s Political Turmoil Deepens: Security Chief Resigns Amidst Crisis
South Korea’s political landscape is undergoing unprecedented turmoil as the nation grapples with its worst political crisis in decades. The resignation of Park Chong-jun, the presidential security chief of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, marks the latest twist in the unfolding drama. Park’s decision to step down comes as investigators intensify efforts to arrest Yoon following his controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, which led to his impeachment.
Park Chong-jun, a former police officer, submitted his resignation while being questioned by authorities regarding the actions of the Presidential Security Service (PSS) during an intense standoff last week. The PSS, under Park's leadership, had obstructed investigators from detaining Yoon, leading to accusations of obstructing public duty. Despite warnings and repeated summons from the police, Park had initially refused to cooperate, but he ultimately agreed to appear for questioning. His resignation was swiftly accepted by acting president Choi Sang-mok, signaling the interim administration's intent to manage the crisis with transparency and accountability.
The situation remains volatile as investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) and the police prepare for a second attempt to detain Yoon. The first arrest attempt ended in a tense standoff at Yoon’s residence, where his security guards reportedly heightened measures by installing barbed wire and bus barricades. Yoon’s legal team has stated that his guards are on “high alert 24/7,” citing immense pressure from ongoing investigations and impeachment proceedings.
The stakes are high for Yoon, who could become the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested. His impeachment, already approved by lawmakers, is now awaiting a decision from the Constitutional Court, which will determine whether to uphold his suspension or reinstate him. The impeachment trial is set to begin on January 14, regardless of whether Yoon is in custody. Analysts suggest that any violent clashes during a second arrest attempt could further diminish Yoon’s standing, both legally and politically.
Amid the chaos, public opinion remains sharply divided. Rival protest camps have emerged across the nation, with one side calling for Yoon’s immediate detention and the other demanding the impeachment be nullified. The political divide has also spurred a resurgence of support for Yoon’s ruling People Power Party, with a recent Gallup poll showing their approval ratings climbing to 34%, up from 24% just three weeks ago.
The CIO and police are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to ensure the next arrest attempt proceeds smoothly. Reports suggest that as many as 1,000 investigators may be mobilized to carry out the operation. At the same time, the authorities have warned that anyone obstructing justice could face detention themselves.
The crisis has also reignited debates about the role and responsibilities of the Presidential Security Service. Critics argue that the PSS must uphold the law and cooperate with investigators rather than obstructing their duties. In a statement before his resignation, Park Chong-jun emphasized the need to avoid physical clashes or violence during future arrest attempts, underscoring the delicate balance between maintaining order and ensuring accountability.
As South Korea edges closer to a pivotal moment in its political history, the outcome of Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment trial and the ongoing investigations will undoubtedly shape the nation’s governance and democracy for years to come.
Refrence From: www.ndtv.com