Standoff in South Korea: Presidential Security Hurdles Arrest Warrant

South Korean investigators urged the acting president to execute an arrest warrant for President Yoon Suk Yeol, embroiled in controversy over martial law declaration. His arrest was thwarted by security officials during a six-hour standoff. The case highlights political tensions within the country's administration.

In a significant escalation in South Korean politics, investigators have once again appealed to the country's acting president, urging him to enforce an arrest warrant for the embattled President Yoon Suk Yeol. This came after a dramatic standoff involving the presidential security service.

The confrontation lasted for six hours on Friday when security personnel, supported by military forces, blocked prosecutors from apprehending the president within his compound. Yoon Suk Yeol had stirred controversy by declaring martial law the previous month, prompting the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials to secure an arrest warrant.

Acting President Choi Sang-mok, who also serves as finance minister, has been pressed to ensure cooperation with the warrant, though so far, the finance ministry has withheld comment. The warrant represents a historic first: charges against a sitting South Korean president for such an upheaval.

(With inputs from agencies.)