On Friday, South Korea witnessed renewed protests against President Yoon Suk Yeol, who had recently faced significant backlash following his declaration of martial law on December 3, which was later reversed. The National Assembly subsequently impeached him and initiated an investigation into possible insurrection.
Despite initial success in mobilizing against Yoon, the protest movement has experienced paralysis and polarization. Outside Yoon's official residence in central Seoul, supporters of the president had gathered, responding to news of a potential detention related to his martial law declaration. Some had camped out for days, determined to prevent any attempts to detain him.
Law enforcement faced challenges as they attempted to serve a warrant for Yoon's questioning, ultimately retreating after hours of confrontation with his supporters and heightened security measures. The situation escalated as thousands of anti-Yoon protesters arrived, leading to a tense standoff.
Among the anti-Yoon demonstrators, university student Lee Ye-seul expressed frustration, stating, "I'm so angry," as she marched with others demanding the president's arrest. Protesters occupied a road nearby, displaying signs that read, "Detain and arrest Yoon Suk Yeol immediately!"
In contrast, pro-Yoon supporter Kang Hye-sun expressed her emotional support, insisting that Yoon was fighting alone and alleging voter fraud in the previous election. She held a sign echoing sentiments similar to those used by former President Donald Trump regarding election integrity.
Similar claims of voter fraud were echoed by leaders of the pro-Yoon protest, who deemed the National Assembly's impeachment invalid. Tensions flared between the two groups, with occasional confrontations, but law enforcement managed to maintain a degree of order.
As night fell, the anti-Yoon protesters began to settle in for an overnight vigil, continuing to chant demands for Yoon’s arrest despite dropping temperatures. Lee stated her commitment to remain until action was taken against the president and those she viewed as complicit in insurrection.