South Korea’s Presidential Security Chief Steps Down Amid Warnings of Potential Bloodshed

Department of Research, Studies and International News 10-01-2025

The chief of South Korea’s Presidential Security Service, Park Jong-joon, has officially resigned following his public caution against potential “bloodshed” in any attempt to arrest suspended President Yoon Suk-yeol. The embattled president faces accusations stemming from his controversial and brief imposition of martial law earlier this month.

Park Jong-joon tendered his resignation on Friday as scrutiny intensified over allegations of obstructing public duties. The office of acting President Choi Sang-mok confirmed the resignation shortly after Park presented himself for questioning by the authorities.

Upon his arrival at the Joint Investigation Headquarters in Seoul, Park addressed the media, emphasizing the public’s growing concern about possible violent confrontations. He stated, “I am here today with a firm belief that no situation should lead to physical clashes or bloodshed. My hope is to prevent any such unfortunate incidents.”

This development comes amid heightened tensions surrounding efforts by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials (CIO) and police to detain President Yoon. Last week, Yoon’s security team blocked investigators from executing an arrest warrant at his official residence, leading to a tense standoff that lasted several hours. The anticorruption agency ultimately abandoned its attempt to arrest the president, citing concerns for the safety of its personnel.

President Yoon has been at the center of a political maelstrom since December 3, when his abrupt declaration of martial law plunged South Korea into one of its most severe political crises in decades. He is now under investigation for allegations of insurrection and abuse of power. Following his impeachment by the National Assembly on December 14, Yoon was suspended from his presidential duties. If detained, he would make history as the first South Korean sitting president to be taken into custody.

Park Jong-joon, who had previously ignored two summonses to appear for questioning, expressed his frustration over what he described as the unjust treatment of President Yoon. He called for the investigation to be conducted in a manner that upholds the “dignity of the nation.”

Meanwhile, President Yoon’s legal team has criticized the attempts to arrest him, arguing that these actions lack a solid legal foundation. They have urged investigators to either formally indict the suspended leader or obtain a court-sanctioned arrest warrant to ensure due process.

Public sentiment regarding the situation remains deeply divided. A recent survey conducted by Gallup Korea revealed a decrease in the number of citizens supporting Yoon’s removal from office. The poll, released on Friday, showed that 64% of respondents favored his ousting, a notable decline from 75% shortly after his declaration of martial law.

Despite the ongoing legal challenges, Yoon and his People Power Party (PPP) have seen an upswing in public support. The PPP’s approval rating has climbed to 34%, up from 24% a month earlier. These figures suggest a complex political landscape, with opinions on Yoon’s leadership and the broader implications of his actions continuing to evolve.

As South Korea grapples with these unfolding events, the nation remains at a crossroads, facing significant questions about leadership, governance, and the rule of law.