South Korea: Former President Yoon Relocates to Private Residence One Week Post-Ouster

Synopsis

On April 11, former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol transitioned to his private home after being ousted due to a martial law declaration. Reflecting on his presidency, he thanked supporters and expressed his intent to continue serving the nation as a private citizen.

Key Takeaways

Yoon Suk Yeol has moved to his private residence.
He was ousted from office one week ago.
Yoon expressed gratitude to his supporters.
A security team has been organized for him.
He continues to face legal challenges.

Seoul, April 11 (NationPress) The former President of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, transitioned from his official residence to his personal home on Friday, just a week after his removal from office due to a brief declaration of martial law in December.

In a written statement, Yoon expressed his heartfelt gratitude, stating, "Today, I am departing the official residence. I am truly thankful for everything."

Reflecting on his time at the residence, he reminisced about his interactions with global leaders as part of his summit diplomacy and expressed appreciation for those who rallied in his support during the winter.

"At this point, I will return to my life as an ordinary citizen, pursuing a new direction to serve our nation and its people," he added.

As he exited through the front gate of the residence located in central Seoul, a crowd of supporters gathered to bid him farewell, with Yoon raising his fists in the air. He exchanged handshakes and hugs with supporters, many of whom were emotional.

He then traveled in a motorcade towards the Acrovista apartment complex in the southern area of the capital, reaching his destination in 21 minutes, accompanied by his wife, Kim Keon Hee, along with their numerous dogs and cats.

Prior to his departure, both supporters and opponents gathered near the official residence in Yongsan, central Seoul, and the apartment complex to hold their respective rallies.

Opponents called for Yoon's arrest on insurrection charges, while supporters held signs stating messages like "Yoon Again." A welcoming banner for Yoon's return was also displayed inside the Acrovista complex.

Beyond the impeachment, Yoon continues to face a criminal trial concerning charges of insurrection tied to his martial law order.

The Presidential Security Service has reportedly organized a security team consisting of about 40 personnel for the former President, who qualifies for security protection for up to 10 years.

Following his inauguration in May 2022, Yoon shifted the presidential office from Cheong Wa Dae in downtown Seoul to the defense ministry compound in the central Yongsan district, as reported by Yonhap news agency.

For six months, Yoon commuted from the apartment building while preparations were underway for the new office and residence, which had been remodeled from the former foreign minister's official residence.