Increased Security Measures for Constitutional Court Judges Amid Impeachment Protests

As the impeachment trial of President Yoon Suk-yeol reaches its climax, protests for and against his impeachment have intensified near the Constitutional Court in Jongno-gu, Seoul. Supporters of President Yoon gather in large numbers daily to voice their opposition to the impeachment, while various groups calling for his removal hold frequent press conferences and rallies. This ongoing impeachment situation, which began after the National Assembly passed the impeachment motion on December 14, 2024, has significantly altered the daily lives of the Constitutional Court judges and staff.

According to legal sources on February 21, judges at the Constitutional Court now have 2 to 3 police officers accompanying them for personal protection wherever they go. Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae, who enjoys playing tennis, has reportedly not been able to visit the tennis court for a long time due to the security detail. Recently, protests by supporters of President Yoon have also taken place outside his residence. Judge Kim Hyung-doo, who typically makes time for swimming once or twice a week to maintain his health, has also stopped going to the pool due to the presence of security personnel. He has even ceased visiting his usual library after work.

Judges are now opting to remain inside the court building until the end of their workday, avoiding going outside whenever possible. They utilize the court's cafeteria, which is exclusively for staff, for meals, and if they must attend a meal appointment, they travel to nearby restaurants using official vehicles.

The challenges are not limited to the judges; the court staff are also facing difficulties. They are reportedly taking turns to work night shifts in preparation for any potential emergencies. One court official stated, "We cannot freely manage our meals or commutes and must maintain a constant state of alertness."

In response to the increasing noise from nearby protests disrupting their work, the Constitutional Court has distributed earplugs to all employees, including judges. Staff members wear yellow noise-canceling earplugs, but the building's soundproofing is insufficient to block out the protest sounds.

Another court official remarked, "A few years ago, we lowered the walls around the court to be closer to the public, but now that low wall feels like a source of fear." On the day of President Yoon's defense, some supporters even entered the court premises to shout slogans against alleged election fraud. Legal professionals familiar with the situation at the court anticipate that the tension will escalate as the verdict approaches, creating a heightened atmosphere of readiness among the staff.