]
Yoon’s “refusal of the legal process” is “deeply regrettable”, the CIO said, adding that next steps will be decided after a review.
Yoon’s supporters, who have been camped out in front of the presidential residence for days, cheered in song and dance as the suspension was announced. “We won!” they chanted.
The CIO said that concern for the safety of the team on the ground was another factor in their decision to call off the attempted arrest.
This development is not unexpected, given Yoon’s defiance throughout the investigation process.
Experts say that as a former chief prosecutor, Yoon is well aware of the legal loopholes available for his defence.
Investigators have until 6 January to arrest him before the current warrant expires.
This means they may attempt to arrest Yoon again over the weekend, although this could be logistically challenging as the crowds are likely to swell.
They can also apply for a new warrant and try to detain him again.
Before the attempt was stood down, Yoon’s security team told the news agency they had been “in negotiation” with the investigators who sought to access the president.
Police have opened a criminal case against the chief of Yoon’s security service and his deputy, and summoned them for questioning, according to Yonhap.
Yoon’s legal team was also seen entering the residence slightly past noon local time.
His lawyer Yoon Gab-keun earlier said they would take legal action over the arrest warrant, arguing that investigators lacked the authority to detain him.
