Rival Protests Erupt in Seoul Amidst Impeachment Turmoil

In a dramatic display of division, supporters and opponents of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol held rival protests in Seoul, following his impeachment over a brief martial law declaration. Despite his presidential powers being suspended, Yoon remains in office and has not complied with investigations into whether his actions constituted insurrection.

The Constitutional Court, tasked with deciding Yoon’s fate, plans its first preparatory hearing on Friday. Meanwhile, Saturday’s protests unfolded in Gwanghwamun, the capital’s heart, with no reported clashes by late afternoon.

Tens of thousands of anti-Yoon demonstrators, primarily younger citizens, rallied with K-Pop light sticks and signs demanding Yoon’s arrest. “I wanted to ask Yoon how he could do this to a democracy in the 21st century,” said Cho Sung-hyo, a 27-year-old protester.

Conversely, thousands of pro-Yoon supporters, mainly older conservatives, gathered to oppose his impeachment and advocate for the restoration of his powers. Businessman Lee Young-su voiced concerns over alleged election rigging and communist influence, expressing steadfast opposition to Yoon’s removal.

Yoon had justified his martial law decision with claims of election hacking and threats from pro-North Korean elements, which the National Election Commission has refuted. The unfolding events highlight deep national divides as the country awaits the court’s crucial decision.