Political Turmoil in South Korea: First Arrest of a Sitting President

In a groundbreaking episode of TV CHOSUN's talk show '강적들' (Strong Opponents), a panel of political figures discussed the unprecedented situation surrounding the arrest and potential detention of a sitting president in South Korea. Former People Power Party (국민의힘) member Yoo Seung-min, Democratic Party (더불어민주당) member Jeong Seong-ho, Dongyang University professor Jin Joong-kwon, and former CBS editorial chief Kim Kyu-wan shared their insights on the escalating impeachment crisis.

The political landscape has been thrown into chaos following the arrest of President Yoon Suk-yeol and the subsequent request for a detention warrant. Reflecting on past events, Yoo Seung-min recalled his thoughts eight years ago when prosecutor Yoon Seok-youl arrested former President Park Geun-hye, questioning the necessity of such actions against a sitting president. He noted that the judiciary is likely grappling with the implications of potentially detaining a current leader.

Jeong Seong-ho countered, asserting that President Yoon is evading political accountability and emphasized the need for his detention to stabilize the government and reduce public discord.

As attention turns to the relationship between President Yoon and the People Power Party, some ruling party members gathered outside the president's residence to contest the legality of the arrest warrant. Kim Kyu-wan revealed that some lawmakers did not attend the residence despite receiving calls from President Yoon, indicating a lack of sincere counsel from close associates. He also mentioned that President Yoon feels disappointed with party leaders Kwon Young-se and Kwon Seong-dong, suggesting that the party's passive stance contrasts with Yoon's determination to fight until the end.

Yoo predicted that President Yoon's combative attitude would persist, warning that the recent rise in support for the People Power Party could backfire. He stressed the importance of clarifying their position to rebuild conservative support. Jeong criticized the ruling party for appearing as mere followers of the president, asserting that the relationship remains hierarchical.

Amidst this political turmoil, the judiciary's focus has shifted back to the trial involving Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the Democratic Party. Yoo likened the current political climate to a sequel of the last presidential election, accusing Lee of pushing for a swift impeachment process while attempting to delay his own trial. Jeong refuted this, stating that the Democratic Party holds a majority in the National Assembly and that Lee's actions are not politically motivated with the upcoming election in mind. The episode aired on January 18 at 9:10 PM.