Seoul Rallies Mark 1st Anniversary of Yoon Suk Yeol's Ouster
Synopsis
On the first anniversary of Yoon Suk Yeol's ousting, Seoul witnessed opposing rallies with thousands commemorating or contesting his removal. The events highlighted ongoing political tensions and divisions within the country as supporters and opponents took to the streets.
Key Takeaways
Thousands gathered in Seoul to mark the anniversary of Yoon's ousting.
Demonstrators held signs calling for social reform and denouncing insurrection.
No reported violence between opposing rallies.
Yoon is currently in custody facing charges.
The People Power Party is facing internal strife regarding its connection to Yoon.
Seoul, April 4 (NationPress) A significant number of individuals gathered in the heart of Seoul on Saturday to either commemorate or contest the removal of former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was found guilty of insurrection, marking the first anniversary of his ousting from office.
Approximately 1,000 demonstrators assembled outside the Constitutional Court, wielding placards that proclaimed "End insurrection, treason" and advocating for "grand social reform." This demonstration coincided with the anniversary of the Constitutional Court's decision to remove Yoon for unlawfully declaring martial law on December 3, 2024.
Earlier this year, a district court sentenced Yoon to life imprisonment after convicting him of insurrection for deploying military forces to the National Assembly.
In another part of the city, hundreds of protesters gathered near the National Assembly, demanding reform in legal proceedings connected to Yoon, who had previously held the position of the nation's top prosecutor, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
In contrast, nearly 3,000 supporters of Yoon organized demonstrations and marches around the Constitutional Court, the National Assembly, and central Seoul, denouncing his removal and calling for his release. Many waved the national flags of South Korea alongside the United States, with an Israeli flag also seen among the crowd.
"One year post the unjust ousting, we remain undeterred," shouted a young protester, with others asserting that the martial law declaration was "valid." No incidents of violence were reported between the opposing groups.
Currently, Yoon is in custody awaiting trial for his failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2024, as well as other charges.
On March 9, the main opposition party, People Power Party, issued an apology for the 2024 martial law declaration by then-President Yoon Suk Yeol, vowing to distance themselves from him amid ongoing internal strife ahead of the upcoming local elections on June 3.
This resolution was made public by all party lawmakers as the party faces declining public support following Yoon's martial law attempt and internal conflicts regarding its political stance and connections with the former president.
Some members of the party are advocating for a definitive split from Yoon, while others support the so-called Yoon Again movement.
Point of View
The recent rallies in Seoul reflect the split sentiment surrounding former President Yoon Suk Yeol's ousting. The mobilization of both supporters and opponents indicates a nation grappling with political division and the consequences of Yoon's controversial actions.
NationPress
27 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Yoon Suk Yeol ousted?
Yoon Suk Yeol was ousted for unlawfully declaring martial law in December 2024, which led to his conviction for insurrection.
What were the demands of the protesters?
Protesters called for social reform and the end of what they described as insurrection and treason, while supporters demanded Yoon's release.
Was there any violence during the rallies?
No clashes were reported between the opposing rallies held in Seoul.
What is the current status of Yoon Suk Yeol?
Yoon Suk Yeol is currently in custody awaiting trial for his failed martial law declaration and other charges.
What is the People Power Party's position on Yoon?
The People Power Party has publicly apologized for Yoon's actions and is considering distancing itself from him amid internal conflicts.
