Seoul: Tens of thousands of people gathered in Seoul on Sunday to rally both for and against the impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, following his unexpected release from detention the previous day. Sarang Jeil Church, led by conservative activist pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon, conducted an outdoor service near the presidential residence in central Seoul, attracting around 4,500 attendees by noon, based on unofficial police estimates.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Jeon declared during the service, "With President Yoon's release, the impeachment trial has become meaningless. It's over." He further warned that if the Constitutional Court makes an unfavorable decision, the people may exercise their right to resist.
Yoon was released from detention on Saturday after being held since mid-January due to his failed martial law bid in December. The court determined his detention was invalid, but he still faces trial for leading an insurrection and awaits the Constitutional Court's decision on his impeachment.
Conservative group Angry Blue planned a rally opposing Yoon's impeachment at Bosingak Pavilion, scheduled to start at 1 p.m., followed by a march along Jongno 3-ga street. Meanwhile, activists advocating for Yoon's immediate removal held an overnight rally near Gyeongbok Palace and announced a week of "emergency action" at a press conference outside the government complex. They intend to march from the National Palace Museum at 2 p.m., with an expected turnout of 100,000 people, leading to partial road closures.
The main opposition Democratic Party (DP) called for Prosecutor General Shim Woo-jung's resignation, citing his role in Yoon's release. They threatened to pursue all measures, including impeachment, if he does not step down.
Additionally, the DP and four other minor opposition parties-Rebuilding Korea Party, Jinbo Party, Basic Income Party, and Social Democratic Party-agreed to jointly demand Shim's resignation and consider impeachment. They also plan to file a complaint against him with the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials.
Conversely, the ruling People Power Party urged the Constitutional Court to dismiss Yoon's impeachment and reinstate him, warning of significant backlash if he is removed and later acquitted of insurrection charges.