President Yoon Seok-yeol's release from detention following the court’s decision to dismiss his arrest warrant has drastically altered the political atmosphere in South Korea, setting the stage for heightened tensions as the Constitutional Court prepares to deliver its ruling on his impeachment.
The court announced on March 7, 2025, its decision to annul President Yoon's arrest warrant, leading to his release the following day after being detained for 52 days. This unexpected turn has resulted in intense scrutiny and speculation about how this will influence the impending impeachment judgment. With the Constitutional Court's ruling expected imminently, both the ruling People Power Party and the opposition Democratic Party are mobilizing resources, potentially using public sentiment to sway the judicial proceedings.
The People Power Party welcomed Yoon’s release as confirmation of significant flaws in the legal process surrounding his investigation. They view the dismissal of the arrest warrant as evidence of procedural irregularities within the prosecution’s approach. Shin Dong-wook, the party's spokesperson, asserted, “This is such a logical decision, and we hope it will serve as an opportunity to correct the distorted rule of law.” They are now calling for the Constitutional Court to reconsider the details surrounding Yoon’s impeachment and urge the court to maintain impartiality.
On the other hand, the Democratic Party has expressed dismay at the court's ruling and its subsequent challenges. They believe the criminality surrounding Yoon does not diminish the gravity of his impeachment. Lee Jae-myung, the party leader, stated, “Just because the prosecution made errors doesn’t absolve us from the reality of the constitutional order being undermined.” The party intends to push for the speedy conclusion of the impeachment trial, believing the failure to do so could manifest significant political instability.
Park Chan-dae, the floor leader of the Democratic Party, indicated strong discontent with the prosecution as well, holding Prosecutor General Shim Woo-jung accountable for the perceived mismanagement of the case. Following the court’s ruling, Park declared, “We will report the Prosecutor General to the authorities and seek impeachment if he refuses to step down.”
Political analysts predict the rivalry between the two parties will only escalate as Yoon’s political maneuvers are expected to intensify now with his release. Protests demanding Yoon’s impeachment arose almost immediately after his release, with large crowds dominating the streets of Seoul. Approximately 100,000 people marched, calling for accountability and demanding Yoon’s departure from office.
Meanwhile, gatherings and sermons led by conservative figures, including Pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon of the Sarang Jeil Church, took place near Yoon’s residence. On March 9, these events saw thousands calling for the dismissal of the impeachment proceedings against him.
The conflict has raised questions about the potential influence Yoon’s release may have on the Constitutional Court’s proceedings, sparking concerns over whether the court can remain free from external pressures—especially with rivals undertaking intense political posturing. Some analysts suggest the legal framework for Yoon’s trial could be challenged due to the way the prosecution managed his case.
Yoon’s internal activities are also being monitored closely. Although he is officially suspended from performing presidential duties due to the impeachment, he has been seen as playing the role of 'detention politics', having encouraged close aides to maintain focus on national matters upon returning to the presidential residence. He has been reported to say, “For the sake of our country and its people, I wish for the governmental office to steadfastly uphold the core of national affairs,” indicating he may actively engage politically.
Legal experts maintain the argument believes the court’s decision to dismiss the arrest warrant is unlikely to influence the impeachment trial since they are considered separate judicial processes. Some also suggest the Constitutional Court may face its pressures, realizing it cannot overlook evident procedural irregularities acknowledged by the lower court.
Looking forward, the Constitutional Court is anticipated to finalize its deliberations around March 14, 2025, after conducting hearings almost daily since Yoon's impeachment trial concluded on February 25, 2025. The developments leading to the final verdict, initially expected to arrive on schedule, now face possible delays as Yoon’s legal team may introduce additional procedural issues based on the recent court decision.
Consequently, this situation leaves both sides braced for uncertain outcomes, as the legitimacy and procedural correctness of the impeachment process are thrown back under the microscope of public and political opinion. The pro-Yoon camp is adamant about contesting what they call ‘politically motivated accusations’ against him, but the opposition is equally resolved, denouncing what they characterize as the erosion of judicial integrity. This political strife is expected to escalate until the Constitutional Court announces its decision, with both parties likely to continue their battles well beyond the verdict.