South Korea’s political crisis intensified with massive rallies held in Seoul both in support of and against impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol following his release from detention.
Thousands gathered in the capital on Sunday, marking the continued polarization surrounding his impeachment.
Around 4,500 pro-Yoon protesters rallied near the presidential residence in central Seoul, demanding the Constitutional Court dismiss the impeachment.
The rally, organized by Sarang Jeil Church and conservative pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon, claimed that Yoon’s release rendered the impeachment trial irrelevant. Jeon warned that if the Constitutional Court ruled against Yoon, they would exercise their right to resist.
Yoon, who was released on Saturday after being detained since mid-January for his involvement in a failed martial law attempt, still faces charges of leading an insurrection. He is awaiting the Constitutional Court’s ruling on whether to uphold or dismiss his impeachment.
On the other side, opposing rallies were held, with activists calling for Yoon’s immediate removal. A large demonstration is planned, with claims of 100,000 participants marching in protest.
The Democratic Party has demanded the resignation of Prosecutor General Shim Woo-jung, accusing him of mishandling Yoon’s release.
The ruling People Power Party, however, is pressuring the Constitutional Court to dismiss the impeachment and reinstate Yoon.
The situation remains highly tense, with the future of South Korea’s leadership hanging in the balance.
