Large-scale rally paralyzes downtown Seoul as unionists demand Yoon’s resignation
Demonstrators gathered outside South Korea’s National Assembly on Wednesday, December 4, demanding the resignation of President Yoon Suk Yeol. The crowd, estimated at around 100 people, chanted slogans such as “Arrest Yoon Suk Yeol” and “Trash Yoon Suk Yeol,” expressing anger over recent political events. The protest comes after the president declared martial law late Tuesday, a decision that was swiftly reversed following unanimous rejection by lawmakers.
The atmosphere outside the National Assembly was tense, with a heavy police presence in place to manage the situation. Protesters held banners and shouted demands for the president’s impeachment. Many in the crowd called the late-night martial law declaration an abuse of power, further intensifying public outrage.
The protests follow a series of controversies that have plagued Yoon’s presidency, including accusations of corruption involving his wife, First Lady Kim Keon Hee. Her alleged acceptance of a $2,200 Christian Dior handbag as a gift violated South Korea’s strict anti-graft laws, which prohibit public officials and their families from receiving gifts worth more than $750. Although prosecutors decided last month not to charge her, the incident significantly damaged the president’s public image.
Tuesday’s martial law declaration, intended to curb growing unrest, marked a turning point. Many citizens viewed the move as an authoritarian overreach. Though Yoon rescinded the measure hours later, the damage to his credibility was already done. Calls for his resignation gained momentum overnight, leading to Wednesday’s demonstrations.
Adding to the turmoil, Yoon’s chief of staff and over 10 senior secretaries submitted their resignations earlier in the day. This mass departure from the presidential office signals internal discontent within the administration. Despite these resignations and mounting pressure, Yoon has not indicated plans to step down.
The political tension stems from broader dissatisfaction with Yoon’s leadership. Critics argue that his administration has failed to address key economic issues and improve living conditions. His popularity has plummeted in recent months, with opposition leaders capitalizing on public discontent to push for his removal.
The handbag scandal further exacerbated the situation. The controversy began in November last year when a secretly recorded video showed First Lady Kim allegedly receiving the luxury Dior item from a Korean American pastor. While Kim denied accepting the bag, the footage sparked widespread outrage. Opposition parties used the incident to question the president’s integrity, framing it as emblematic of a larger pattern of corruption within the administration.
Yoon’s handling of the scandal drew criticism for being dismissive. His claim that the video was a “political stunt” aimed at influencing midterm elections did little to placate public anger. Instead, the opposition won those elections by a landslide, underscoring voters’ dissatisfaction with his leadership.
Political analysts suggest that Yoon’s position is becoming increasingly untenable. The combination of public protests, internal resignations, and plummeting approval ratings has left his administration vulnerable. While some believe he might weather this political storm, others see these developments as the beginning of the end for his presidency.
As demonstrations continue in Seoul, the situation remains volatile. Protesters show no signs of backing down, and opposition parties are intensifying efforts to rally public support for Yoon’s impeachment. The president’s next steps will likely determine whether he can salvage his administration or if South Korea is heading for a significant political shift.
The events of December 4 mark a pivotal moment in South Korean politics. The coming days will reveal whether President Yoon can navigate this crisis or if public pressure will ultimately force his resignation.
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