Former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has been taken into custody by authorities amid accusations of insurrection tied to his failed martial law attempt. The arrest marks a historic moment, as it is the first time an active South Korean president has faced such charges.

On Wednesday, Yoon’s motorcade departed from his residence, where he had remained secluded for weeks, surrounded by barbed wire and a strong security presence. He was taken to the offices of the anti-corruption agency, which is overseeing the ongoing investigation into his actions. In a statement, Yoon confirmed that he willingly complied with the authorities to avoid further confrontations, after more than 3,000 police officers gathered around his home early in the morning to execute the arrest.

The arrest follows the issuance of a warrant by investigators, which marks the first time in South Korea’s history that such an order has been made against a sitting president. Yoon’s legal team maintains that the detention is unlawful and aimed at publicly disgracing him, but authorities have proceeded with the arrest nonetheless, citing the severity of the accusations.

Yoon's attempt to declare martial law last year shocked the nation and sparked intense political instability, ultimately leading to his impeachment. On December 14, South Korea's lawmakers voted to remove him from office, citing the breach of democratic principles posed by his actions. The martial law attempt plunged one of Asia’s leading democracies into a crisis with no precedent in recent memory.

As news spread about Yoon’s possible detention, emotions ran high outside his residence, where small clashes broke out between tearful supporters of Yoon and the police. The protests highlight the deep divisions in South Korea regarding Yoon’s leadership and impeachment.

Under the arrest warrant, Yoon can be detained for up to 48 hours. If authorities wish to extend his detention beyond that period, they will need to request further legal approval. The unfolding legal case continues to captivate the South Korean public, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of an unprecedented political scandal.