SEOUL: A surge of public dissent has enveloped South Korea as Channel News Asia reports that hundreds of thousands of South Koreans rallied on Saturday in response to the impending decision from the Constitutional Court regarding impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. The court is expected to rule whether to formally dismiss him after Yoon's controversial declaration of martial law on December 3.

The court's deliberations have drawn the attention of the nation, and with predictions of a verdict now delayed beyond mid-March, this has resulted in what is now the longest case in the court’s history. Activists are voicing their frustrations; many are calling the situation untenable, as expressed by Kim Min-ji, a 25-year-old protester who stated, “It is infuriating that there has still been no formal dismissal.” Many voices in opposition accuse the court of providing leeway to those “complicit in Yoon’s crime,” referring to the charges of insurrection he faces.

Rival demonstrations supporting Yoon continue to emerge, reflecting a deeply divided political landscape. Supporters, including various right-wing commentators and some religious leaders, assert that Yoon’s actions as president should not be classified as insurrection. Park Jong-hwan, a Yoon supporter, emphasized that “this country will be in a much better, stable place once he returns to the presidential office.”

The charged atmosphere comes as the Constitutional Court prepares to announce a decision that could profoundly affect the political future of South Korea. The ruling could lead the court to either endorse Yoon’s impeachment or permit his reinstatement. Reports note that at least six out of the eight justices must agree to remove him from office.

Increasing tensions have prompted police to prepare for possible unrest, mobilizing significant resources and readying for any potential violence on the day of the ruling. Authorities are also considering countermeasures against potential threats as the nation anticipates this pivotal judicial decision.

As developments unfold, many observers remain on alert, mindful of the broader implications for democracy in South Korea.