Introduction

In a vibrant, yet charged atmosphere, roughly 100,000 passionate protesters gathered outside Seoul's National Assembly, determined to demand the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Armed with colorful light sticks and a playlist of pulsating rave music, the crowd shouted, “Impeach Yoon Suk Yeol! Arrest Yoon Suk Yeol!”—underscoring the serious nature of their cause.

Background

The protest came on the heels of a tumultuous few days for Yoon, who had attempted to declare martial law, only to face a growing outcry from the public. Hours before the scheduled impeachment vote, Yoon appeared on television to address the nation, offering an apology that failed to placate the protesters, many of whom were already mobilized across the city, expressing their dissent.

The Protest

As the afternoon wore on, attendees filled the main thoroughfare leading to the National Assembly while the cold winter breeze flapped protest flags overhead. The scene resembled a lively outdoor music festival, with food vendors selling sweet red-bean pastries and bands performing popular protest songs and acapella renditions of upbeat folk melodies.

Union Leader's Speech

One union leader gave a fiery oration that resonated with the crowd, proclaiming, "We must wipe out the traitors! If the impeachment vote fails, all 1.5 million members of our union will run straight to the presidential office!" The audience roared in response, echoing the leader's impassioned cries for justice.

Diminishing Hope

However, as dusk descended, the hope that had buoyed the protesters began to diminish. When the time came to vote, the ruling People Power Party (PPP) announced a boycott, thwarting the opposition’s efforts, which were short only eight votes needed to pass the impeachment bill. The sight of PPP lawmakers walking out of the chamber while the opposition shouted in protest captured the ire of the attendees.

Voices from the Crowd

One office worker lamented, “The freedom of democracy is crumbling because of just one man. It's killing me,” while another protestor voiced her frustration, having traveled hours to be there. The sentiment that lawmakers were failing to represent the will of the people was palpable throughout the crowd.

Desperate Measures

In a desperate bid, leaders called for the crowd to surround the National Assembly in hopes of blocking lawmakers from leaving and buying precious time for negotiations. Elation broke out when PPP member Kim Sang-wook decided to return to vote, sparking cheers and chants from the protesters.

Betrayal and Despair

Yet, hope soon turned to despair as it was revealed that Kim had voted against impeachment. As the evening progressed, the mood darkened and, despite the crowd's pleas for PPP members to return, the Speaker of the Assembly announced the early closure of the vote.

Outcome of the Vote

In a dramatic twist, the outcome of the bill was announced: it had failed to pass, not reaching the necessary quorum. The crowd's jubilant spirit crumbled as despair washed over them—some shouted in anger while others wept openly.

Determination to Continue

Undeterred, protest leaders rallied the crowd, vowing to continue their fight against Yoon and the PPP. As the night came to a close, they promised that this wouldn't be the end; fresh protests were already being planned for the following day.

Public Opinion

Polling suggests that the public is largely on their side, with approximately 75% of South Koreans expressing support for impeachment. Yoon's approval rating has plummeted to a mere 13%, intensifying dissatisfaction with his administration.

Conclusion

As the final note of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas” echoed down the avenue, protestors left with heavy hearts but resolved minds, ready to return and voice their demands again soon. With another rally scheduled for Sunday, the struggle for their version of democracy continues in South Korea, echoing the larger sentiments of a populace unwilling to back down in the face of perceived injustice.