Sharjah24: Thousands of people gathered in Seoul on Saturday to protest the impeachment of former South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol, who was removed from office a day earlier following a failed attempt to declare martial law. The Constitutional Court unanimously ruled on Friday that Yoon's actions on December 3 posed a grave threat to civilian rule, leading to his dismissal and triggering fresh elections set to be held by June.
The court’s decision followed months of political tension, with Yoon’s far-right supporters holding regular rallies in the capital. On Saturday, crowds marched through the rain, calling for the impeachment to be overturned and the upcoming snap election to be cancelled.
Yoon had justified his martial law move as a response to internal threats and alleged dangers from North Korea. However, opposition to his rule was also visible, with scenes of celebration across Seoul following the court’s verdict.
Throughout his presidency, Yoon received backing from far-right religious groups and conservative online influencers, who were accused of spreading misinformation to maintain public support. His removal marks a significant shift in the country’s political landscape.
Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung is now considered the leading candidate in the upcoming election. His party has taken a more measured approach towards North Korea, prompting concern among some Yoon supporters about a potential shift in policy direction.
The political crisis and Yoon’s impeachment have deepened divisions in South Korean society, highlighting growing tensions between conservative and progressive factions.
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