Massive rallies across South Korea ahead of key ruling on impeachment of president

Tens of thousands of South Koreans flooded the streets of Seoul on Saturday, rallying for and against impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol ahead of a crucial court ruling that could remove him from office.

The Constitutional Court is expected to decide soon whether Yoon’s martial law declaration disqualifies him from the presidency. The case has deepened political divisions, rattled markets, and sparked the country’s biggest crisis in decades.

Far-right protesters chant slogans during a rally to support impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in central Seoul, South Korea, March 15, 2025.Reuters

Mass demonstrations in Seoul

In central Seoul, anti-Yoon protesters gathered in massive numbers, chanting for his immediate ouster and joined by opposition politicians.

People attend a rally calling for immediate expulsion of impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in central Seoul, South Korea, March 15, 2025. Reuters

Conservative Yoon supporters waved South Korean and American flags just a few blocks away, demanding his reinstatement.

The Democratic Party claimed over a million attended the anti-Yoon rally, while police estimated 43,000 demonstrators at each protest, according to Yonhap news agency.

Far-right protesters chant slogans during a rally to support impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in central Seoul, South Korea, March 15, 2025.Reuters

Legal and political fallout

Yoon also faces a criminal trial for insurrection, though he was released from detention last week. His attempt to impose martial law has strained institutions and left the military in a difficult position over whether to enforce the decree.

Polls show public sentiment remains divided. A Gallup Korea survey published Friday found that 58% support Yoon’s impeachment, while 37% oppose it.

“I came here hoping the Constitutional Court will rule next week,” said Song Young-sun, a 48-year-old protester demanding Yoon’s removal.

Meanwhile, 70-year-old Kim Hyung-joon, a Yoon supporter, urged the court to reject the impeachment. “I hope the judges make a precise judgment and dismiss the case,” he said.