The Constitutional Court of South Korea is currently facing significant public scrutiny as it deliberates the impeachment trial of President Yoon Suk-yeol, with the court's decision still pending days after the conclusion of arguments. Recent polling indicates considerable division among the South Korean populace, reflecting the heightened tensions surrounding this pivotal political moment.
A national public opinion poll conducted by Embrain Public, Case Text, Korea Research, and Hankook Research from March 10 to 12, 2025, surveyed 1,000 adults aged 18 and older. The results show 53% of respondents believing President Yoon's impeachment will be "accepted and judged," whereas 38% anticipate it will be "dismissed and duties restored." The poll also revealed public sentiment toward President Yoon's response to the impeachment: 37% of participants positively assessed his handling of the situation, with 57% expressing disapproval. This survey, conducted via telephone interviews, has a sampling error of ±3.1% at a 95% confidence level and had a response rate of 21.1%.
Despite some expectations for the court to finalize its decision shortly, Chief Justice Lee Jong-seok and the other judges have yet to set a date for the verdict, which is speculated to be delayed until next week. This delay could make President Yoon's impeachment trial the longest in South Korean history, surpassing previous trials involving former Presidents Roh Moo-hyun and Park Geun-hye.
Notably, the Chief Justice's failure to announce a verdict date—common practice typically includes notifications made 2-3 days before court decisions—has raised concerns about the potential for unrest among citizens. The National Assembly originally passed the impeachment motion against President Yoon on December 14, 2024, with proceedings concluding February 25, 2025. Currently, 15 days have lapsed with no verdict.
These tensions have triggered increased security measures around the Constitutional Court, particularly on the anticipated verdict day of March 13, 2025. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency has ordered heightened vigilance, including restrictions on rooftop access to prevent potential violent actions from demonstrators, who are likely to gather nearby.
“The measures include checks on construction site security and monitoring of large gatherings,” stated police officials. This precautionary approach aims to mitigate risks associated with emotionally charged reactions to the impending verdict.
Alongside police measures, the Seoul transportation authority is reviewing plans to close unmanned item storage facilities at subway stations, viewing this as necessary security against potential explosive threats. This consideration aligns with existing fears surrounding the possibility of violent outbreaks during protests by President Yoon's supporters and opponents alike.
The fervor surrounding this impeachment has been underscored by public correspondence; reports indicate over 2.66 million letters of support and opposition have been sent to the court between the Abschluss of proceedings on February 25 and the present. These letters predominantly echo the divided opinions of citizens, showcasing strong sentiments on both sides.
“The longer the decision takes, the more the hostility seems to grow and the lower both sides’ morale goes,” remarked Professor Kim Seon-taek, from Korea University Law School. He emphasized the urgent need for the court to reach and announce its decision without delay.
On March 12, 2025, outside the court, demonstrators organized rallies expressing both support for and opposition to President Yoon, emphasizing the deep polarization within South Korean society. Historical precedents from past impeachments indicate potential volatility during this time: during President Park Geun-hye's impeachment, violent clashes resulted when angered protesters faced off with law enforcement, resulting tragically in fatalities.
With marching and signs declaring support for the president, supporters converged outside the court. Opponents similarly rallied, each side deeply committed to their respective causes. Law enforcement is urging caution among citizens: “We encourage peaceful demonstration; safety is of utmost priority,” police representatives stated.
Currently, Jongno District, where the Constitutional Court is situated, is taking preventive measures by advising schools nearby to close on the day of the hearing to avoid chaos. The district plans to deploy emergency medical teams, ensuring both protesters and civilians have access to immediate medical assistance if tensions escalate.
The applicable schools include local elementary and middle institutions, as well as high schools and special education facilities, contributing to public safety amid anticipated high-stress environments on decision day.
With the court yet to finalize plans for the hearing date, political analysts urge for increased transparency and timely communication. Public trust is waning as anxiety grows surrounding the impeachment’s potential ramifications, both politically for the future of South Korea and socially among its citizens. “The Constitutional Court needs to navigate these turbulent waters carefully to stabilize the trust between citizens and the judiciary,” said one political analyst.
At present, as emotional stakes might escalate, contending factions remain poised for either satisfaction or disappointment, hinging upon the court's ruling. The nation watches intently, waiting for the verdict of this historic trial, considering its potential to reshape not only President Yoon's fate but possibly the political fabric of South Korea.