Yoon is suspected of ordering the Presidential Security Service (PSS) to block investigators’ attempt to arrest him for his imposition of martial law last December.

According to reports, the investigation revealed text messages Yoon sent on Jan. 3 to then PSS deputy chief Kim Seong-hoon via the U.S.-based app Signal when investigators tried to arrest him at his official residence, without success.

According to police sources, Yoon also reportedly instructed Kim to block a second attempt by investigators to arrest him on January 7.

The leader was finally arrested on January 15, and has since been held in custody at a detention center.

Yoon has also been attending his impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court, which is due to uphold or dismiss his parliamentary impeachment, and another criminal trial on insurrection charges in connection with his declaration of martial law in December.

As incumbent president, Yoon enjoys immunity from prosecution, with the exception of the insurrection charge, which could lead to life imprisonment or even death if convicted.

mh/mem/nvo