Seoul: The execution of an arrest warrant for President Yoon Suk Yeol has encountered significant opposition from the Presidential Security Service (PSS), leading to a challenging standoff. The National Office of Investigation under the National Police Agency has accused Park Jong-joon, the chief of the PSS, and Kim Sung-hoon, the deputy chief, of obstructing official duties by refusing to comply with the warrant. Both officials have been summoned for questioning, yet have declined to appear.
According to Yonhap News Agency, on January 3, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials (CIO) attempted to execute the arrest warrant at President Yoon's residence in Hannam-dong, central Seoul, but were blocked by PSS security personnel. As the validity of the court-issued warrant expires today, the PSS's continued obstruction could lead to more severe legal repercussions for those involved.
The PSS, established under state law, is not a private militia but a public agency obligated to act in the nation's interest. Its personnel must refuse illegal or unjust orders, regardless of their source. Compliance with such orders, particularly when it involves blocking a lawful arrest, is a direct breach of the law, and security staff must understand that they remain legally accountable.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok is urged to intervene and direct the PSS to cooperate with the CIO. Following President Yoon's impeachment by the National Assembly, Choi has the authority to oversee the PSS. Failure to address this conflict could exacerbate social tensions and chaos, an outcome seen as irresponsible.
In response, President Yoon's legal team has condemned the CIO's actions as illegal and plans to file complaints against CIO Commissioner Oh Dong-woon and others. They allege that senior officials, including Police Vice Commissioner General Lee Ho-young and Deputy Defense Minister Kim Sun-ho, failed to support the PSS and instead collaborated with the CIO. This move has been criticized as hypocritical.
The legal team also contested the warrant for allegedly excluding certain articles of the Criminal Procedure Act but saw their objections dismissed by the court. There is a call for President Yoon's team to cooperate with the lawful process to maintain some degree of dignity during this tumultuous period.