Protests Erupt in Seoul After President Yoon’s Release

Seoul: Thousands of South Koreans gathered in the capital on Sunday, holding rival demonstrations in response to the release of President Yoon Suk-yeol from custody the previous day. His release has intensified political tensions in the country.

A conservative Christian group, Sarang Jeil Church, led by activist pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon, held a rally near the presidential residence in central Seoul. According to Yonhap News Agency, police estimates suggested around 4,500 people had assembled by midday. Addressing the crowd, Jeon declared, “With President Yoon’s release, the impeachment process is meaningless—it’s over. If the Constitutional Court makes an unjust decision, we will exercise the people’s right to resistance.”

Meanwhile, anti-Yoon protesters gathered outside Seoul’s historic Gyeongbok Palace, staging an overnight demonstration demanding his immediate removal from office. The group held a press conference on Sunday, calling for a week-long “state of emergency” to push for his ousting.

Yoon was released from the Seoul Detention Center on Saturday after spending 52 days in custody. His release followed a court ruling allowing him to stand trial without being physically detained. Waving to his supporters, Yoon exited the facility amid cheers from his backers.

Despite his release, both impeachment proceedings and criminal trials against Yoon will continue. The Constitutional Court is expected to deliver a verdict soon on his impeachment case, which stems from his controversial decision to declare martial law on December 3. The court concluded hearings on the matter late last month but has yet to announce a ruling date.

If the court upholds Yoon’s impeachment, he will be permanently removed from office, triggering a snap presidential election within 60 days. However, if the court overturns the impeachment, Yoon will immediately resume his presidential duties.

With tensions running high, South Korea braces for the court’s imminent decision, which could significantly impact the country’s political landscape.