Protests Intensify as South Korea's President Survives Impeachment Vote

Thousands gathered outside South Korea's National Assembly on Saturday, calling for the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Protesters chanted “Impeach Yoon Suk Yeol!” and waved light sticks to the beats of music, creating a vibrant yet politically charged atmosphere. The rally, attended by an estimated 100,000 people, followed Yoon’s failed attempt to impose martial law earlier in the week.

Despite the festive mood, with vendors selling snacks and music performances energizing the crowd, the protesters’ demands were clear: they want the president removed from office. Demonstrators accused Yoon of jeopardizing democracy and lambasted lawmakers for stalling the impeachment vote.

As the National Assembly convened to vote on the impeachment bill, ruling party lawmakers boycotted the session. The opposition fell short of the required 200 votes to pass the bill, leaving protesters outside disheartened. Some broke down in tears, while others pledged to continue their fight.

Inside the Assembly, opposition leaders vowed to reintroduce the impeachment motion until it passes, bolstered by public sentiment. According to recent polls, three-quarters of South Koreans support Yoon’s impeachment, while his approval rating has plummeted to 13%.

Protest leaders encouraged the crowd to persist, announcing plans for another rally on Sunday. “We will not stop until Yoon is punished,” declared one speaker, reigniting the protesters’ determination. As they dispersed to the tune of Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas, the fight for impeachment was far from over.

The ongoing rallies underscore the growing discontent with President Yoon's leadership and signal a prolonged period of political unrest in South Korea.