South Korea: Final Rallies Planned for Yoon's Supporters and Opponents

Synopsis

This weekend, tens of thousands of South Koreans are expected to gather in Seoul to rally for or against President Yoon Suk Yeol amid a delay in the Constitutional Court's ruling on his impeachment. The protests will be significant, with both sides preparing for large demonstrations.

Key Takeaways

Massive rallies planned in Seoul for Yoon's supporters and opponents.
Yoon's opponents may gather near Gyeongbok Palace.
Approximately 1 million participants expected from Yoon's adversaries.
Gwanghwamun rally anticipated to draw 200,000 supporters.
Police to deploy 220 officers to ensure public order.

Seoul, March 21 (NationPress) This weekend, tens of thousands of South Koreans are anticipated to converge in central Seoul to demonstrate either in support of or against President Yoon Suk Yeol, as reported by police on Friday. This gathering comes amid a prolonged delay in the Constitutional Court's decision regarding the President's impeachment.

With the ruling expected to be forthcoming, both supporters and opponents of Yoon are gearing up for a significant showdown through their large-scale street demonstrations.

Yoon's adversaries intend to assemble just outside Gyeongbok Palace in central Seoul on Saturday afternoon to amplify their demand for the court to rule in favor of his removal, as indicated by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency.

The organizers of the rally are determined to attract as many as 1 million participants. Following the rally, they plan to march towards Jongno streets.

Simultaneously, rallies spearheaded by pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon and the conservative Christian group Save Korea will occur on a road between Gwanghwamun Square and Seoul City Hall, as well as in Yeouido in western Seoul, to counter the impeachment.

Supporters of Yoon have informed the police that the Gwanghwamun rally is expected to attract around 200,000 participants, according to the Yonhap news agency.

To alleviate disruptions for the public, the police plan to deploy approximately 220 traffic officers around the rally and march locations.

Earlier, on March 18, Acting President Choi Sang-mok urged the public to respect the forthcoming ruling of the Constitutional Court regarding President Yoon's impeachment amid rising fears of escalating social tensions.

"I sincerely urge the people to respect and accept whatever decision the Constitutional Court makes," Choi stated during a Cabinet meeting.

If Yoon is removed from office, a snap presidential election will need to be conducted within 60 days. Conversely, if he is reinstated, he will complete his term, which extends through May 2027.