Sat Mar 29 11:04:01 UTC 2025: ## Seoul Divided as Impeachment Trial of President Yoon Suk Yeol Drags On

**SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA** – Hundreds of thousands of South Koreans took to the streets of Seoul on Saturday, staging massive rival protests for and against impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol as the Constitutional Court deliberates his fate. The demonstrations highlight the deep political divisions gripping the nation as the impeachment trial stretches beyond its typical timeframe.

President Yoon, suspended from office since December following his controversial martial law decree, faces potential removal from office. The National Assembly, controlled by the liberal opposition, initiated the impeachment proceedings. The Constitutional Court, however, has yet to issue a ruling, a delay fueling frustration among both supporters and opponents.

Pro-impeachment protesters, expressing growing fatigue with the protracted process, voiced concerns about the ongoing political instability. “The ongoing delays have led to a growing sense of scepticism,” stated Lee Han-sol, a participant in the anti-Yoon rally. A recent Gallup Korea poll indicated 58 percent of respondents favored the president’s removal.

Conversely, supporters of President Yoon, a group including right-wing YouTubers and religious figures, denounced the impeachment as unlawful. They emphasized their significant numbers, believing the court would heed their presence. “The Constitutional Court won’t be able to ignore us,” declared Lee Hye-sook, a 58-year-old supporter.

The Constitutional Court has until June to issue a ruling, a significantly longer period than in previous impeachment cases. A two-thirds majority is needed for removal, triggering a snap presidential election within 60 days. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the main opposition Democratic Party, is considered a frontrunner in this scenario, although he too faces legal challenges. The prolonged uncertainty and intense public demonstrations underscore the high stakes of this unprecedented political situation in South Korea.

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