Synopsis
On January 20, 2024, detained President Yoon Suk Yeol was moved to a solitary cell at the Seoul Detention Center after being formally arrested over the weekend. His arrest follows a court warrant citing concerns of evidence tampering. Yoon has cooperated with detention procedures amid heightened security due to potential actions from his supporters.Key Takeaways
- Yoon Suk Yeol moved to solitary confinement.
- Formal arrest occurred over the weekend.
- Cell size comparable to past presidential detentions.
- Yoon cooperated with detention procedures.
- Security measures are heightened amid supporter concerns.
Seoul, Jan 20 (NationPress) Detained President Yoon Suk Yeol has been transferred to a solitary cell within the Seoul Detention Center's general wing following his formal arrest over the weekend, as stated by a correctional official on Monday.
Yoon was relocated to a 12-square-metre cell at the detention center in Uiwang, situated south of Seoul, on Sunday after the Seoul Western District Court issued a warrant for his formal arrest, according to Shin Yong-hae, commissioner general of the Korea Correctional Service.
"(Yoon) was transitioned from a holding room for suspects to the general detention wing, and (I) received a report indicating that he spent the night comfortably," Shin informed lawmakers during a session of the National Assembly's legislation and judiciary committee.
Shin mentioned that Yoon's cell, which is typically occupied by five or six individuals, is comparable in size to those where former presidents have been detained, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
The official also relayed to lawmakers that Yoon has been cooperative with official detention procedures, including having a mug shot taken and undergoing a physical examination, and that a personal correctional officer has been appointed for his safety.
Shin added that his office is collaborating with the police and the Presidential Security Service to assure security, amidst fears that Yoon's supporters might attempt drastic measures, such as trying to liberate the detained president.
Earlier that day, Yoon's attorneys announced that he will not attend further inquiries regarding his failed martial law attempt on Monday.
Yoon has been summoned by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) for questioning at 10 a.m., after he failed to appear the day prior, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
The CIO is anticipated to forcibly bring him in or visit him at the Seoul Detention Center, where he has been held since last Wednesday, if he continues to defy the orders.
Yoon was formally arrested early Sunday following a court's issuance of a warrant to prolong his detention due to concerns he might tamper with evidence.
