Seoul: The prosecution has organized a nine-member team to delve into the actions of violent protesters who stormed a court, expressing their anger over the decision to formally arrest President Yoon Suk Yeol due to his failed martial law attempt.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Supreme Prosecutors Office characterized the violence against law enforcement and resulting vandalism as "grave crimes" that threaten the integrity of the rule of law and the judicial system. The Seoul Western District Prosecutors Office has been tasked with addressing this matter sternly, working closely with the police during the investigation.
Earlier, authorities apprehended 45 protesters involved in violent acts at the Seoul Western District Court, which had issued a warrant for the president's extended detention. The court's decision was based on concerns about potential evidence destruction related to allegations of insurrection and abuse of power during Yoon's martial law imposition on December 3.
In response to the court's ruling, a group of protesters forcefully entered the court premises by scaling walls, breaking windows, and throwing objects such as plastic chairs and trash. They also sprayed a fire extinguisher at police officers stationed around the building. These individuals were part of a larger group of approximately 44,000 Yoon supporters gathered outside the court as the impeached president attended a hearing about his detention.
Some protesters engaged in physical confrontations with police as they attempted to breach the court grounds, disregarding repeated warnings that their actions could lead to arrests or even a crowd crush. Since Saturday, police have detained a total of 86 protesters and formed a special investigation team to examine the incident further and decide on appropriate actions against those involved. Authorities have promised to deal "sternly" with individuals who broke the law.