Disgraced South Korean Leader Yoon Suk Yeol Vacates Presidential Residence Amid Public Farewell

SEOUL, 11 April 2025 (BSS/AFP) – South Korea’s impeached former President Yoon Suk Yeol departed the presidential residence in Seoul on Friday, marking a dramatic end to a turbulent chapter in the nation’s political history. The 64-year-old bid an emotional farewell to supporters who had gathered outside, many holding signs that read “Yoon Again”.

Yoon, removed from office by the Constitutional Court last week following his controversial martial law declaration on 3 December, embraced members of the crowd, shook hands, and left in a police-escorted convoy. The brief imposition of martial law, which saw soldiers stationed around parliament, sparked national and international alarm but was swiftly revoked within hours.

A Quiet Farewell to Power

Standing before his supporters, Yoon expressed his gratitude, saying:

“Even in the bitter cold, your warmth and dedication brought comfort, and I carry that memory deeply in my heart.”

His message, released through his legal team, added:

“Now, I return to being an ordinary citizen of the Republic of Korea, and I will seek a new path in service of our country and our people.”

Supporters also lined the streets near his private residence in Seoul’s Seocho district, holding flowers and welcoming banners. One sign, posted by the local residents’ association, read: “Mr and Mrs President, thank you for your service.”

However, not all neighbours were enthusiastic. A resident, identifying herself only as Ms Lee, shared mixed feelings:

“I would vote for him again if I had to, but I am worried about the security. Last time, the security and separate elevators were annoying. Also, what is he going to do with all his pets?”

Yoon is known to be an avid animal lover, currently housing 11 cats and dogs.

The Charges and Political Aftermath

Though removed from office, Yoon’s political and legal challenges are far from over. He is expected to face a criminal trial on insurrection charges related to the December martial law attempt.

The impeachment and ensuing unrest have left South Korea in a state of political flux, with the next presidential election scheduled for 3 June 2025.

Lee Jae-myung Emerges as Frontrunner

In the wake of Yoon’s downfall, Lee Jae-myung, leader of the main opposition party and runner-up in the 2022 presidential election, has emerged as the frontrunner in the upcoming race. On Friday, Lee unveiled his policy roadmap, vowing to “help South Korea recover from recent political turmoil”.

Lee’s political career has also been punctuated by legal issues, including ongoing court cases, but his return to prominence signals a shifting political tide.

Broader Implications

Yoon’s impeachment marks the second time in under a decade that a South Korean president has been removed from office, following Park Geun-hye’s ousting in 2017. These events underscore growing demands for transparency, accountability, and democratic resilience in South Korean governance.

With political uncertainty still looming, all eyes are now on the June elections, where the country hopes to turn a new page.