South Korea’s Presidential Security Service (PSS) chief, Park Chong-jun, resigned on Friday as investigators readied themselves for a renewed attempt to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol.
Park’s resignation came after he faced intense questioning regarding the actions of his security team, which had previously prevented Yoon’s detention
during a tense standoff between the former president’s guards and investigators on January 3.
Yoon, who declared martial law in December 2024, has been at the heart of South Korea’s most significant political crisis in decades.
His refusal to cooperate with investigations, including resisting arrest last week, led to mounting pressure on his security team.
Park, facing accusations of obstructing justice, submitted his resignation in the midst of ongoing investigations and police preparations for another arrest attempt.
“I understand the concerns of citizens about the current situation and the tensions between government agencies,”
Park said in a statement before attending questioning at the Korean National Police Agency.
He emphasized, “Under no circumstances should there be physical clashes or bloodshed” if investigators pursue another arrest attempt.
South Korea’s political landscape has grown increasingly polarized, with protest camps demanding opposing outcomes:
one side calling for Yoon’s impeachment to be invalidated and the other urging his immediate detention.
If arrested, Yoon would become the first sitting South Korean president to face criminal charges.
Yoon’s legal team, however, has refused to comply with the current arrest warrant, and Park’s resignation has not quelled tensions.
The Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) has vowed to “prepare thoroughly” for the second arrest attempt.
Meanwhile, Yoon’s guards continue to fortify his residence with increased security measures, including barbed wire and barricades.
Amid this political crisis, South Korea is bracing for further conflict.
Analysts warn that any violent clashes could weaken Yoon’s position in the ongoing impeachment trial, which is set to begin on January 14.
Public opinion remains divided, but recent polls show growing support for Yoon’s ruling party, despite the turmoil surrounding him.
