MBC's popular variety show 'Hangout With Yoo' was abruptly interrupted on January 18 to make way for a breaking news special on President Yoon Suk Yeol's arrest warrant hearing.
During the episode, the cast members were seen working on their 'Winter Song' project.
However, at approximately 6:56 PM, MBC aired an onscreen caption announcing the conclusion of President Yoon's arrest warrant hearing with the message: "President Yoon's legal counsel confirms hearing concluded at 6:50 PM."
Four minutes later, at 7:00 PM, the show was suddenly halted, replaced by the emergency news broadcast. MBC quickly revised its programming schedule to air the remaining portion of 'Hangout With Yoo' after the news special concluded.
Earlier that afternoon, at 2:00 PM, President Yoon appeared at the Seoul Western District Court for the first-ever arrest warrant hearing of a sitting South Korean president. Presided over by Judge Cha Eun Kyung, the hearing included a 20-minute recess and ended at approximately 6:50 PM.
President Yoon reportedly gave a 40-minute statement and concluded with a final 5-minute address. The arrest warrant decision hinges on allegations of inciting rebellion following the declaration of 'December 3rd Martial Law.'
If the warrant is approved, Yoon will become the first incumbent president in South Korean history to be detained. Conversely, if denied, he will be released from the Seoul Detention Center and return to the presidential residence.
This unprecedented event has drawn nationwide attention, with the court's decision poised to make a significant impact on the nation's political landscape.
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