A sign reading "Visitor" is placed at the entrance of Seoul Detention Center in Uiwang, Gyeonggi Province, Friday, the day the center began to allow President Yoon Suk Yeol to meet visitors other than his lawyers. Yonhap

President Yoon Suk Yeol received his first non-lawyer visit (from close aides) at the Seoul Detention Center on Friday. This marked the first general visitation since his detention on Jan. 15.

The meeting took place in a separate room within the detention center, following established protocols for pretrial detainee visits. It was conducted in a manner that ensured a distinct space for Yoon and his visitors, away from other detainees. Alongside the president were presidential chief of staff Chung Jin-suk, national security adviser Shin Won-sik and senior secretary for civil affairs Kim Joo-hyun.

The visit became possible when the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) lifted the restrictions on general visits to the president on Jan. 24, though such visits were temporarily limited during the Lunar New Year holiday.

During the meeting, Yoon urged his close presidential aides to remain focused and committed to their responsibilities. The president emphasized the importance of the presidential office in shaping the nation's governance and encouraged his staff not to be discouraged, regardless of the challenges they may face.

"Since the presidential office is at the center of state affairs, do not let your spirits falter. Give your best in your respective positions," Yoon told his aides, according to a senior official from the presidential office who was present at the meeting.

The president also asked his officials about the status of the country's health care system over the Lunar New Year holiday. Concerned about the welfare of citizens, especially older adults, he asked, "Is the medical system working well? Are older citizens experiencing any difficulties?"

He then reassured his team with a brief remark, stating, "This is a place where people live. We are doing fine."

Despite the circumstances, the president maintained a composed and healthy demeanor throughout the visit, as reported by the official in attendance.

The president is expected to continue receiving visits from various officials, including those from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, under the current regulations, general visits are limited to one per day, meaning that careful scheduling and coordination will be required for any future engagements.

In addition, it has been reported that first lady Kim Keon Hee, for the time being, will refrain from visiting her husband at the detention center.