Gwangju: Save Korea, a Protestant group opposing the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, is planning to hold a rally in Gwangju on February 15. This follows previous demonstrations at Busan Station and Dongdaegu Station. After Gwangju Mayor Kang Gi-jung denied the use of the May 18 Democracy Square, citing concerns about inciting rebellion, the group filed to hold its rally on Geumnam-ro. It is expected that around 10,000 attendees will participate, including Jeon Han-gil, a well-known Korean history instructor and YouTuber.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Gwangju Emergency Action, which supports the impeachment, has pledged to increase its numbers significantly for this event and has called on political figures to join them. The group has stated, "We cannot simply allow this rebel group's rampage to continue. We will mobilize twice the expected turnout of Save Korea." With both rallies occurring in close proximity and at similar times, there is a risk of physical clashes. Although citizens have the constitutional right to demonstrate, a head-to-head confrontation in the streets is far from ideal. The decision on President Yoon's impeachment lies with the Constitutional Court, not the size of crowds in public squares.

The political parties involved are not effectively channeling public sentiment into the political arena. The ruling People Power Party (PPP) has become entangled with hard-line anti-impeachment forces. At a large rally at Dongdaegu Station last week, over 10 PPP lawmakers attended, while North Gyeongsang Gov. Lee Cheol-woo, concerned about election law violations, limited his participation to singing the national anthem. The PPP's reluctance to distance itself from martial law advocates leaves it in an awkward position.

The Democratic Party (DP) appears ready to engage in escalating street battles as well. Last week, DP Chief Lee Jae-myung encouraged attendance at impeachment rallies, and some party figures have heightened societal divisions. Park Gu-yong, head of the DP's Education and Training Institute, recently resigned after controversial remarks about young protesters, indicating a mindset that excludes opponents rather than persuading them. This mindset risks fueling a psychological civil war and raises concerns over potential physical clashes and violence.

Democracy thrives on mutual respect, tolerance, and the ability to accept outcomes. No one should be excluded for holding different opinions, and demonstrations must adhere to the law and remain peaceful. Political parties should not incite street battles or exploit them for gain, and law enforcement must ensure rallies are orderly and respond firmly to any illegal activities.