Tensions Rise in Seoul as Impeachment Decision Looms for President Yoon Suk Yeol

Key police measures are in place to prevent violence between opposing supporters during this critical moment in South Korean politics.

 

As South Korea anticipates a pivotal ruling from its Constitutional Court regarding President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment, tensions are mounting in the capital city of Seoul. With the decision expected on Friday afternoon, authorities have mobilized over 14,000 police officers to manage the expected influx of demonstrators from both sides.

Leading up to the ruling, police have closed off significant areas near the court with barricades and buses, restricting access to popular tourist spots and local businesses. Subway stations in the vicinity have been closed, and schools have been instructed to shut down for safety reasons. Drones have also been banned from the area as a precaution. The first protests are scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. local time, coinciding with the court's reading of the ruling at approximately 11 a.m.

Yoon's administration has faced significant backlash since he attempted to declare martial law in December, which ultimately led to his impeachment by legislators. While he was detained on charges of insurrection earlier this year, he was unexpectedly released last month due to procedural issues related to his arrest.

Amidst rising tensions and fears of clashes between supporters and opponents of Yoon, police have fortified their presence around the Constitutional Court, erecting metal barriers to segregate the opposing groups. This measures draw parallels to events during the 2017 impeachment of former President Park Geun-hye, where confrontations led to tragic outcomes.

In a call for calm amid the uncertainty, South Korea’s interim leader, Han Duck-soo, urged the nation to respect the court’s decision and refrain from violence or illegal activities. He emphasized the need for unity and stability amidst a politically tumultuous climate that affects all South Koreans.