Yoon Suk Yeol leaves presidency after impeachment in South Korea

South Korea’s ousted leader Yoon Suk Yeol bids emotional farewell and promises to continue serving the nation.

Ousted South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol departs the official residence in Seoul on April 11, 2025. Photo by Jeon Heon-Kyun/AFP

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

In a powerful and emotional scene in Seoul, Yoon Suk Yeol leaves presidency after impeachment in South Korea, drawing crowds of passionate supporters as he departed the presidential residence on Friday. The 64-year-old former president, recently stripped of his authority by the Constitutional Court, was greeted with chants, handshakes, and posters reading "Yoon Again" — a clear message that his political journey might not yet be over.

Yoon’s departure marks the dramatic end of a turbulent chapter in South Korean politics. Just a week ago, he was ousted from office following his controversial martial law declaration on December 3. The attempt, which included deploying soldiers to the National Assembly, stunned the nation and lasted only a few hours before collapsing under legal and public backlash.

Yet, despite being impeached and removed from office, Yoon showed no sign of retreat as he stood before the crowd outside the Blue House. His message was clear: he may no longer hold official power, but his connection to the people — and his political ambitions — remain intact.

“Even in the bitter cold, your warmth and dedication brought comfort, and I carry that memory deeply in my heart,” Yoon said in a statement issued by his legal team.

“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.”

A polarizing presidency ends in turmoil

Yoon Suk Yeol leaves presidency after impeachment just two years into his term, following months of intensifying protests and political tension. The Constitutional Court’s decision to strip him of power has sent shockwaves throughout the country, dividing public opinion and igniting both celebration and outrage.

Yoon’s presidency was marked by fierce debates over civil liberties, executive power, and his conservative stance on national security. His controversial December 3 move to declare martial law was the breaking point for many, leading to accusations of authoritarian overreach and constitutional violations.

Although Yoon’s supporters argue that his actions were meant to “preserve national sovereignty,” critics saw the martial law declaration as a dangerous escalation that threatened South Korea’s democratic foundations.

Legal experts noted that the deployment of military forces to parliament, even if short-lived, could not be reconciled with South Korea’s commitment to civilian governance and constitutional rule.

Supporters rally around a fallen leader

Despite the Constitutional Court’s ruling, Yoon’s base remains active and loyal. Hundreds of supporters had waited for hours outside the presidential residence, braving the early April chill. Many waved South Korean flags, while others held up signs calling for his return.

As Yoon exited the Blue House compound under a police-led convoy, he took time to greet the crowd. He hugged elderly supporters, shook hands with young volunteers, and even posed briefly for photos. It was a carefully choreographed farewell — one that strongly hinted at future political ambitions.

For some observers, the imagery evoked memories of past South Korean leaders who found renewed relevance after being ousted from power. The possibility of a political comeback for Yoon, while uncertain, cannot be ruled out — especially given the evident strength of his grassroots support.

Yoon Suk Yeol leaves presidency after impeachment at a time when South Korea faces major challenges both domestically and internationally. The nation is preparing for key parliamentary elections, and the abrupt removal of a sitting president has injected an air of unpredictability into the political landscape.

In the immediate aftermath of the impeachment, South Korea’s interim leadership has focused on calming markets, restoring public trust, and reinforcing democratic stability. Officials have stressed that constitutional order remains intact, and that the transition of power will follow legal procedures.

However, the deep divisions among the public remain. While critics of Yoon celebrated his removal as a necessary correction, his supporters view it as a political attack against a strong-willed leader who dared to challenge the establishment.

As protests and counter-protests continue in Seoul and other major cities, political analysts warn that South Korea’s fragile unity could be further tested in the months ahead.

What’s next for Yoon Suk Yeol?

Although Yoon Suk Yeol leaves presidency after impeachment, his political story may not be over. In his farewell message, Yoon hinted at a return to public life — though he was vague on specifics.

Observers note that many former South Korean leaders have staged comebacks in some form, whether through party leadership, media presence, or advisory roles. Given his support base and name recognition, Yoon could remain an influential figure in conservative politics, especially in future elections.

What remains to be seen is whether Yoon can reframe his legacy from one of controversy to one of resilience. His next moves — whether he chooses to lie low or launch a campaign for redemption — will shape both his personal future and the direction of conservative politics in South Korea.

The scene in Seoul on Friday was both symbolic and historic. As Yoon Suk Yeol leaves presidency after impeachment, South Korea enters a new chapter — one that will be closely watched both at home and abroad. The challenges ahead are significant: political healing, institutional integrity, and ensuring that democratic principles endure.

Yet, for many of Yoon’s supporters, his departure was not an ending but a pause. As one elderly woman in the crowd said with tears in her eyes, “He will come back. He’s not done.”

Only time will tell if that prophecy comes true. But for now, the nation watches, waits, and reflects on a presidency that ended not with silence, but with cheers, tears, and the promise of a possible return.