President Yoon Suk Yeol takes a walk with his dog, Tori, at Hangang Park in 2022 during his time as president-elect. Courtesy of the People Power Party

President Yoon Suk Yeol spent his final moments at his Hannam-dong residence in Seoul caring for his dog, Tori, before his detention on Wednesday.

In the middle of conversations with his visitors, Yoon said, "I need to see Tori before I go," and then spent about 10 minutes with the dog in his room, according to multiple ruling party officials who met President Yoon at his residence shortly before his detention.

As Yoon prepared to leave his residence, staff responsible for Tori held the dog to prevent it from following him, visibly emotional. This scene moved the People Power Party (PPP) lawmakers, party leaders, and presidential aides present at the residence, many of whom were seen in tears. First lady Kim Keon Hee was notably absent.

'Turn to YouTube, not legacy media,'

During conversations with his visitors, Yoon offered political advice, suggesting they rely on YouTube instead of traditional media, which he described as biased.

He highlighted the passion of the younger generation, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, who had been gathering near the residence to protest his impeachment.

Yoon expressed admiration for their speeches advocating for liberal democracy and opposition to pro-China forces, saying, "Their words deeply moved me."

Promoting conservative-leaning YouTube channels critical of mainstream narratives, Yoon said, "Watch well-curated information on YouTube instead of biased legacy media."

He also urged his allies to ensure the stability of the PPP and work toward re-election, noting that such grassroots efforts were already boosting public support.

One attendee described Yoon as appearing resigned but composed, acknowledging the likelihood of his detention. Later that day, Yoon was detained for questioning on charges of leading an insurrection and transported to the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) in Gwacheon Government Complex, Gyeonggi Province. The CIO has 48 hours to seek a warrant for his arrest.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.