SEOUL: Rival protests swelled in central Seoul on Saturday as the Constitutional Court nears a decision on whether to formally remove impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol from office.
Yoon was impeached in December over his surprise declaration of martial law. Lawmakers accused him of insurrection, and the court has since held weeks of tense hearings. A ruling is due by June, though past cases were resolved much faster.
The delay has only intensified public anger and fuelled weekend rallies. Demonstrators carrying political placards and flags flooded the streets in bitter cold — some demanding Yoon’s ouster, others denouncing the trial as a political witch-hunt.
“The people are exhausted,” said protester Lee Han-sol, 34. “The delays have deepened public scepticism.”
But Yoon loyalists, including right-wing influencers and religious groups, insisted the impeachment is illegal. “The court can’t ignore this turnout,” said Lee Hye-sook, 58.
If removed, a snap election must be held within 60 days. Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung is currently the frontrunner. A recent appeals court ruling overturned his election law conviction, clearing his path — but an appeal could still derail his candidacy. – AFP
