Seoul became the epicenter of intense political expression on March 1, 2025, as massive demonstrations unfolded throughout the city, commemorated by the annual Sam-il Day, which marks Korea's fight for independence from Japanese rule.
The protests, reflecting deep divisions within South Korean society, centered on the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol. The atmosphere was charged as supporters of the President, organized by the People Power Party, gathered at locations including Yeouido and Gwanghwamun. According to sources, significant attendees, including influential party members like Kim Ki-hyun and Na Kyung-won, were present to express their opposition to impeachment during rallies at these venues.
The conservatives' gathering at Yeouido, spearheaded by the Christian group Save Korea, was not alone. Concurrently, Jeon Kwang-hoon, the leader of the Korea Restoration Movement Foundation, called for mass participation, insisting, "We must gather 30 million people at Gwanghwamun on March 1st." Tensions were anticipated as various groups, including students and civic organizations, expressed their opposition to Yoon's presidency.
On the other side of the political spectrum, opposition parties joined forces under the banner of preserving democracy and the constitution. The Democratic Party and other affiliated groups organized their protest under the theme "National Assembly Exit - Demand for the Removal of Yoon Suk-yeol" at Anguk-dong, just outside the Constitutional Court. This protest anticipated participation from prominent figures such as Lee Jae-myung, who stated, "We intend to preserve democracy and protect the constitution against President Yoon's actions." Such sentiments reflect widespread concern within the opposition ranks about governance under Yoon's administration.
With two significant protests occurring simultaneously, city officials braced for potential chaos. Estimates indicated attendance might soar as high as 460,000 participants combined for both sides. This scenario raised alarm over the risk of clashes between the competing factions as they sought to assert their political demands.
Local police prepared to deploy up to 5,400 officers, organized across 91 mobile units, to maintain peace and order during the anticipated events. Law enforcement agencies were equipped to manage traffic disruptions and minimize possible violence, badged with the responsibility of ensuring public safety amid widespread unrest.
Transportation services also faced adjustments due to the high volume of demonstrators. The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced deployment measures, including increased subway services and traffic diversions around key thoroughfares. Stations on Line 1 and Line 2 near areas experiencing significant gathering were set to bolster staff to accommodate heightened needs for passenger management amid this political storm.
Public transport disruptions were likely, with buses rerouting and subway stations prepared to block entry to avoid overcrowding. With protest-related disruptions looming, citizens were warned to seek alternative routes voluntarily or change travel times on this pivotal national holiday.
Even as the events unfolded throughout the day, some factions under the anti-Yoon sentiment prepared for additional marches. For example, students associated with the 'Free University Movement' planned their demonstrations, which included public declarations followed by marches to historical sites like Bosingak.
The dual nature of these protests on March 1 highlights the deeply polarized sentiments surrounding current governance. The juxtaposition of support and opposition for President Yoon suggests not only the contentious atmosphere but also the stakes involved as constituents voiced their demands for change or support.
Onlookers, both local and international, eyed these demonstrations closely, knowing they could set the precedent for future civic engagement and political expression. With the outcome of this day poised to deliver significant messages, the questions linger about the direction of South Korean politics and the people's resolve.
Participants stood firm, armed with their beliefs and slogans, caught between the reflections on their national history and the pressing call for political accountability. The outcomes of March 1st could be seen not just as rallies but as pivotal moments delineated by hope for democracy, reaffirmation of identities, and collective action toward envisioned futures.