Yoon Seok-yeol Impeachment Verdict: What to Expect

The day has arrived for the Constitutional Court to announce its verdict on the impeachment of President Yoon Seok-yeol. Following the December 3 martial law incident, the entertainment industry has seen a divide, with some celebrities advocating for his impeachment while others openly support him. The Constitutional Court is set to deliver its ruling at 11 AM on April 4, marking 111 days since the National Assembly submitted the impeachment motion on December 14 of last year. This case has become notable for being the longest deliberation period in a presidential impeachment trial in South Korea's history.

The National Assembly accused President Yoon of declaring a state of emergency on December 3, which involved deploying military and police forces to suspend the authority of the National Assembly and the National Election Commission. In response, Yoon's camp argued that the emergency declaration was a necessary warning due to ongoing impeachment motions against cabinet members and budget cuts.

As the nation focuses on the Constitutional Court, the entertainment sector mirrors this tension. Since the martial law incident, celebrities have split into two camps: those calling for Yoon's impeachment and those defending him.

Prior to the National Assembly's vote on the impeachment motion, numerous protests and gatherings took place, with citizens demanding Yoon's resignation and impeachment, often waving light sticks instead of candles. Those unable to attend the protests contributed through advance payments and other means, fostering a new culture of activism.

Celebrities have also participated actively. Director Park Chan-wook bought all the bread from a bakery near the National Assembly to distribute to protesters. Stars like Shin So-yul, Oh Dong-min, and Kim Yuna showed their support through social media messages and advance payments.

Notably, singer Lee Seung-hwan performed at a rally outside the National Assembly, stating, "I am a singer specializing in impeachment rallies. For those of my age, what matters more is how we live rather than what we become. I hope for a world where we no longer have to stand on such stages or donate our hard-earned money."

Conversely, there are many stars who support President Yoon, including singer Kim Heung-guk, who attended a rally against Yoon's arrest, expressing confusion over the current state of the nation and urging unity to protect both the country and the president. JK Kim Dong-wook shared a photo of the South Korean and American flags, stating, "Protecting the president is the way to protect the country."

As the Constitutional Court prepares to rule, if the impeachment is upheld, President Yoon will be removed from office, requiring the agreement of at least six judges. Should he be impeached, a presidential election must occur within 60 days, by June 3. Conversely, if the court dismisses the case, Yoon will immediately resume his duties.