South Korea Gripped By Divided Rallies Ahead Of Impeachment Ruling

As the South Korean Constitutional Court prepares to deliver its verdict on the impeachment trial of President Yoon Suk-yeol, a charged atmosphere fills the streets of Seoul. On March 22, 2025, both pro-impeachment and anti-impeachment groups summoned massive rallies throughout the city, reflecting the deep political divisions that have emerged in the nation over this critical moment.

Among the notable demonstrations is the 'Emergency Action for Yoon Suk-yeol's Immediate Resignation and Social Revolution,' set to commence at 5 PM in front of Dongseok Square in Gwanghwamun. This rally anticipates drawing a staggering 1 million supporters, as organizers assert their commitment to mobilize public dissent against the incumbent president.

However, the police have estimated only 20,000 participants based on the formal reports of expected attendance. The strong divergence between expectations and police estimates illustrates the ongoing tensions surrounding the issue, with various parties vying for public attention and support.

Earlier in the day, the Democratic Party orchestrated a 'National Report Rally' at noon, marching from the National Assembly to the Government Art Museum, calling for a swift resolution to the impeachment proceedings. This effort is part of the Democratic Party's strategy to ensure that public pressure mounts on the Constitutional Court to expedite their decision regarding President Yoon's fate.

Additionally, the Minju Nochong union is scheduled to hold a 'National Simultaneous Mobilization March' at 3:50 PM, demanding Yoon's impeachment alongside other labor organizations. This march is expected to highlight concerns over economic policies that many believe have exacerbated social issues amid rising unrest.

Countering the anti-impeachment momentum, supporters of President Yoon, including the Liberty Unification Party and the conservative Christian group Save Korea, have also planned significant gatherings. These pro-Yoon factions are expected to march through Gwanghwamun and Yeouido National Assembly district, aiming to voice their dedication to the president and oppose what they label a politically motivated impeachment effort.

The police response to these events has been heavy, aiming to maintain order during what could become chaotic protests. They have estimated 200,000 attendees for the rally organized by Liberty Unification Party and 20,000 for the Save Korea assembly, highlighting the breadth of support across political lines.

Further to the south in Daejeon, a citizens' rally was held on March 21, where participants voiced their frustration at the delays concerning the Constitutional Court’s ruling. Nam Jae-young, the representative of the Daejeon Emergency Political Council, stressed, "The Constitutional Court must designate a date for the impeachment trial immediately!" This rally echoed similar sentiments of urgency and discontent with the judicial process surrounding the impeachment trial.

Nam also conveyed a sense of hope, stating, "We have confirmed our beautiful power to restore democracy even amidst a dark time of internal strife," highlighting a persistent belief in the collective will of the population to influence the course of political events.

Participants, including various civil groups, express their outrage toward the government’s handling of the situation and call for immediate action: "Stop playing for time and dismiss Yoon Suk-yeol!" is among the fervent slogans being touted as citizens rallied across the country. Um Ja-ok from the Seobiseu Network added a sharper edge to the criticism, questioning, "Can we call those people human beings?" This sentiment underlines the severe frustration felt by many citizens regarding the political landscape and the perceived injustices surrounding the impeachment process.

As dark clouds of dissent gather over the nation, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation not only for the court's impending decision but also for what such a ruling will mean for the political future of South Korea. Public sentiment has reached a fever pitch, with thousands of demonstrators rallying for their beliefs and urging swift judicial action.

The mobilization of large crowds indicates widespread engagement in this political crisis, with the views on either side starkly contrasting and steeped in significant implications for democracy in the nation. The polarization is a crystal-clear reflection of the divergent paths that supporters of impeachment and the president envision for South Korea’s governance moving forward.

As these protests unfold and the momentous decision from the Constitutional Court looms ever closer, the nation watches intently, poised to see whether the courts will uphold the demands for accountability or allow Yoon to remain in power amidst significant public unrest.

Through the ebb and flow of protests, speeches, and rallies, it’s evident that the quest for political reform and justice remains a pivotal chapter in South Korea’s ongoing saga of democracy and public engagement. No matter how the court rules, the social fabric will likely shift, continuing to reflect the passions and aspirations of the South Korean populace.