South Korean authorities conduct raid on president's office

The investigation encompasses actions related to President Yoon Suk Yeol's effort to implement martial law last week. Read Full Article at RT.com.

South Korean authorities conduct raid on president's office
The search is part of a probe into Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed attempt to impose martial law last week.

South Korean police have conducted a raid on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s office as part of their investigation into his brief imposition of martial law last week, which led to widespread protests.

The focus of the raids is on collecting evidence linked to the six-hour decree, according to reports from Yonhap news agency.

The search warrant identifies Yoon as a suspect, with the president’s office, the cabinet meeting room, and the Presidential Security Service included as targets of the raid, Yonhap reported, citing the National Investigation Office of the National Police Agency.

It has been reported that Yoon, who has become the first sitting president in the country to be subjected to an exit ban, was not in the presidential office during the police operation.

During a surprise televised address last week, Yoon announced martial law, alleging that the opposition was preparing for a “rebellion.” He specifically accused the opposition Democratic Party of having sympathies toward North Korea. Shortly after his declaration, lawmakers unanimously voted to lift the decree.

Protests erupted nationwide, with thousands denouncing Yoon’s actions. The president rescinded martial law six hours later, following parliamentary opposition and public outcry.

The Democratic Party, which holds a majority in parliament, swiftly initiated a motion to impeach Yoon, citing his controversial decision as grounds for removal. He narrowly survived the impeachment attempt on Saturday after members of his ruling People Power Party chose to boycott the vote.

As the investigation progressed, police also conducted raids at the Seoul Metropolitan Police offices and the National Assembly Police Guards, resulting in the arrest of several officials, including former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun.

The situation remains tense, as Yoon has encountered criticism from both lawmakers and the public. Nevertheless, he has not resigned and has instead tasked his party with stabilizing the political climate.

Debra A Smith contributed to this report for TROIB News