Tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets of Seoul, South Korea, on Saturday in massive demonstrations both in support of and against impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol, as the country awaits a critical court ruling that could remove him permanently from office.
The protests were sparked by Yoon’s controversial attempt to declare martial law in December 2024, plunging South Korea into its most severe political crisis in decades. The Constitutional Court is expected to deliver its ruling soon, determining whether Yoon’s actions violated constitutional limits and warrant his disqualification from the presidency.
Yoon’s declaration of martial law not only sparked widespread public anger but also rattled financial markets, plunging the country into political uncertainty. Since then, weekly rallies—both pro- and anti-Yoon—have drawn crowds numbering in the hundreds of thousands, underscoring the deep divisions within South Korean society.
Recent polls suggest a majority of the population favors impeachment. One survey showed 58 percent support Yoon’s removal from office, compared to 37 percent opposed.
If the court rules against President Yoon, he will be immediately removed from office, triggering a presidential election within 60 days.
“Yoon’s recent actions were incredibly harmful to our democracy,” said one anti-Yoon protester, echoing the sentiments of many rally participants demanding his permanent ouster.
Meanwhile, pro-Yoon supporters argue that his impeachment is politically motivated and unfair, emphasizing his commitment to security and stability.
Yoon also faces sharp criticism over human rights concerns and is under investigation for potential abuse of power, further complicating the political landscape ahead of the decision.
