Protesters Storm South Korea Court After It Extends Yoon’s Detention

In the early hours of January 19, 2025, hundreds of supporters of South Korea’s arrested President, Yoon Suk Yeol, stormed the Seoul Western District Court following the extension of his detention. The protesters overwhelmed riot police, smashed windows, and destroyed office equipment and furniture. Acting President Choi Sang-mok condemned the violence as “unimaginable” and pledged to enhance security measures. Yoon, who declared martial law on December 3, 2024, was arrested on January 15, 2025, becoming the first sitting South Korean president to be detained. The court extended his detention by up to 20 days, citing concerns he might destroy evidence related to allegations of insurrection. Yoon is being held in solitary confinement at the Seoul Detention Centre and has refused to participate in further questioning