South Korea: Yoon Extends Condolences to Supporter Who Died by Self-Immolation

Synopsis

On March 20, South Korea's impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol extended heartfelt condolences to the family of a supporter who died by self-immolation. This incident followed the man's demonstration in Seoul, expressing support for Yoon. Additionally, Yoon urged his hunger-striking supporters to prioritize their health over political outcomes.

Key Takeaways

Yoon Suk Yeol offered condolences to the family of a supporter who self-immolated.
The incident occurred after the man demonstrated in support of Yoon.
Yoon urged hunger-striking supporters to value their lives over political outcomes.
First Lady Kim Keon Hee criticized security services over Yoon's detainment.
Political implications include potential snap elections if Yoon is ousted.

Seoul, March 20 (NationPress) Yoon Suk Yeol, the impeached President of South Korea, expressed his condolences to the family of a 79-year-old man, who is believed to have been one of his supporters, after the individual tragically self-immolated. This information was confirmed by the presidential office on Thursday.

Yoon's aides conveyed his heartfelt message during their attendance at the funeral service. The man had set himself on fire following a demonstration on March 7, where he distributed printouts expressing his support for Yoon in downtown Seoul.

According to the statement, the aides informed the grieving family that Yoon was deeply saddened by the news of this tragic event.

Furthermore, Yoon reached out to his supporters currently participating in a hunger strike to protest against his impeachment, as reported by Yonhap news agency. He urged them, saying, “Regardless of the outcome of the Constitutional Court's ruling, your lives hold greater value. I urge you to conclude the hunger strike and prioritize your health.” These words were shared by Rep. Ihn Yo-han from the ruling People Power Party.

Earlier, on Wednesday, First Lady Kim Keon Hee reportedly criticized the Presidential Security Service (PSS) for their failure to prevent the detainment of Yoon in January, as per sources.

Allegations indicate that Kim rebuked a PSS officer following a second detainment attempt on January 15, saying, “What’s the point of carrying a gun? You’re supposed to prevent such incidents.” Additionally, she allegedly expressed her distress by stating she wished to “shoot Chairman Lee Jae-myung and then die myself,” referring to the leader of the main opposition Democratic Party.

The officer reportedly escalated the matter to his superiors. The presidential office has since denied the authenticity of Kim’s remarks, asserting, “We do not believe it is true, but we will not respond.”

If Yoon is ultimately ousted, a snap presidential election will be mandated within 60 days. Conversely, if reinstated, he will continue his term until May 2027.