Massive rallies erupt in Seoul after Yoon's release

Seoul

A day after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was unexpectedly released from detention, tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Seoul in fierce protests, both supporting and opposing the impeached president.

Sarang Jeil Church, led by conservative activist pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon, held a Sunday service near the presidential residence in central Seoul, attracting around 4,500 people. Jeon declared the impeachment trial of President Yoon meaningless following his release. "If the Constitutional Court does something strange, we will exercise the people's right to resist," Jeon stated.

Yoon had been detained since mid-January after a failed martial law bid in December, but a court ruled his detention invalid on Saturday, leading to his release. Despite his freedom, Yoon still faces trial for insurrection, and the Constitutional Court must decide whether to uphold or dismiss his impeachment.

Meanwhile, conservative group Angry Blue held a rally opposing the impeachment at Bosingak Pavilion. At the same time, a large group of activists gathered outside Gyeongbok Palace, demanding Yoon’s immediate removal. They declared a week of "emergency action" and planned to march to the National Palace Museum, with an expected turnout of 100,000 people. A follow-up rally in Gwanghwamun is also scheduled for later.

The Democratic Party has called for Prosecutor General Shim Woo-jung's resignation, accusing him of mishandling the decision to release Yoon. The opposition has threatened impeachment proceedings against Shim if he refuses to step down.