In pictures: South Korean protests intensify as detention deadline for impeached president nears

Hundreds of South Koreans gathered outside the residence of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over the weekend, braving freezing temperatures and snow to demand his arrest as the deadline for his detention warrant approaches. (AP photo)

The protests are being held because of growing frustration over Yoon’s actions, particularly his controversial martial law decree last month. (AP photo)

While older generations often lean towards conservatives, what stands out in South Korea is the rising conservatism among Gen Z men, who now form the base of conservative/right-wing support. Young women, on the other hand, form the core of the progressive support base.

On Friday, a tense five-hour standoff occurred when authorities attempted to detain Yoon. (AP photo)

Security forces blocked investigators and police from approaching the residence, setting up barricades and installing barbed wire over the weekend as the one-week detention warrant nears its expiration. (AP photo)

While anti-Yoon protesters rallied for his arrest, pro-Yoon supporters assembled nearby, vowing to defend the president. Police kept the two groups apart using barricades and buses, highlighting the deep divisions within the country over Yoon’s fate. (AP photo)

Yoon’s legal team has challenged the detention warrant, arguing that it cannot be enforced at his residence due to laws protecting sites tied to military secrets. (AP photo)

Military and police leaders have voiced concern over the use of troops to block the detention attempt, calling it inappropriate. (AP photo)

Several top officials involved in enforcing Yoon’s martial law order have already been arrested. (AP photo)