On January 15, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol became the first incumbent leader in the nation’s history to be arrested, following a weeks-long standoff with authorities investigating him for alleged insurrection. Yoon, 64, a seasoned political survivor, has faced mounting legal and political troubles, culminating in his decision to comply with arrest authorities after a tense two-week standoff. Known for his tough persona, Yoon's political career has been marred by personal scandals, opposition, and divisions within his own party.

Yoon’s rise to the presidency in 2022 came after a successful career as a top prosecutor, earning him significant public support. However, since his narrow electoral win, his presidency has been marked by political isolation, battles with opponents, and an escalating legal crisis. His attempted imposition of martial law in December 2023 led to his impeachment by parliament, and now his fate lies in the hands of South Korea’s Constitutional Court.

The President faces multiple investigations, including one into insurrection—the only charge South Korean leaders are not immune from. His refusal to comply with arrest warrants had sparked outrage, but he rallied his supporters by claiming the investigation was politically motivated. During his standoff in his fortified Seoul residence, Yoon’s Presidential Security Service clashed with authorities before he ultimately agreed to appear for questioning.

In a statement released during his arrest, Yoon claimed that he was submitting to authorities to avoid bloodshed, despite refusing to acknowledge the legality of the process. He had previously vowed to "fight until the end," rallying his followers against what he called "anti-state forces."

Yoon's presidency has been overshadowed by scandals, most notably involving his wife, who faced accusations of accepting an expensive Christian Dior handbag as a gift. Though he publicly apologized for the controversy, it was blamed for his party's heavy loss in the April parliamentary elections. Investigations into the allegations of stock price manipulation involving his wife and mother-in-law ultimately did not lead to charges.

Despite his struggles at home, Yoon has had notable successes on the international stage, most prominently in his efforts to repair relations with Japan and strengthen security cooperation with the U.S. His diplomatic success was highlighted in 2023, when he surprised President Joe Biden by performing "American Pie" at a White House event, winning over the crowd.

Yoon’s rise to political prominence began with his high-profile role as the chief prosecutor investigating former President Park Geun-hye in 2016. His bold stance during the investigation and his eventual firing by Park set the stage for his rapid ascent in South Korean politics. By 2019, Yoon was appointed prosecutor general, leading a corruption probe that made him a conservative icon, setting him up for the presidency in 2022.

However, his presidency has been tumultuous from the start. His controversial decision to move the presidential office from the Blue House was fueled by unfounded rumors of feng shui beliefs, and his refusal to hold key officials accountable following the deadly Halloween crowd crush in 2022 only fueled criticisms of his leadership. Additionally, his ties to figures from his past, such as high school friends who played central roles in his administration, have further tainted his presidency.

As Yoon faces mounting legal and political pressure, his future remains uncertain. His arrest is a pivotal moment in South Korea’s political history and could signal further instability for his presidency.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters