A Range of Reactions: From Welcoming the Realization of Justice to Concerns Over a Crisis in Democracy
Students are watching the impeachment broadcast at a high school in Cheonan, Chungnam. (Provided by reader)
On the 4th, as former President Yoon Sukyeol, who had claimed to be the "son of Chungcheong," was removed from office by a unanimous decision of the Constitutional Court, citizens of Cheonan and Asan in Chungnam expressed a wide range of reactions, from welcoming the realization of justice to concerns about a crisis in democracy.
Ms. A, a student at a school in Cheonan who watched the removal process, said, "It was meaningful to witness something that we might one day learn about in textbooks," and pointed out, "No matter how powerful someone is, they must not forget that their authority comes from the people."
Lee Byungdo, the Cheonan Superintendent of Education, also wrote on social media immediately after the verdict, "This removal goes beyond an individual's fate and serves as an opportunity to reflect on how democracy and the rule of law function in our society," adding, "I will strive to minimize the impact of this situation on students and educational sites, and to help them develop the right values and understanding of this historic event as democratic citizens."
A man in his 60s living in Seongjeong-dong, Cheonan, said, "I didn't like it from the moment he called himself the son of Chungcheong. We never had a son like that," and added, "I hope that those who only spouted sophistry will reflect on themselves after this verdict, and that the country will quickly return to normal."
A man in his mid-30s living in Sinbu-dong, Cheonan, said, "Until recently, groups would come in tour buses, make noise with slogans at Gye Mongnyeong and elsewhere, and it was annoying. Now, it seems things will quiet down," and pointed out, "I also believe in God, but I hope religious groups will stop interfering in politics under the guise of religion."
A woman in her 20s living in Tangjeong-myeon, Asan, said, "He kept saying strange things, so I thought this would happen," and added, "I'm also looking forward to the upcoming temporary holiday (presidential by-election)."
A man in his 70s whom we met near Onyang Oncheon Station said, "Something unbelievable has happened. Forces involved in election fraud and pro-North Korea elements will end up taking over the country," and asked, "Now, who will investigate those who have tainted democracy with fraudulent elections?"
Members of the National Assembly from the Democratic Party of Korea also immediately expressed their opinions on social media.
Moon Jinseok, National Assembly member (Cheonan-gap, Chungnam), said, "Yoon Sukyeol, the traitor of the nation whom the entire people wished to see removed, has finally been ousted. This is the victory of the people and democracy, who fought fiercely against the rebel forces for the past four months," emphasizing, "We will restore order and swiftly normalize the Republic of Korea in accordance with the ideals and values of the Constitution."
Lee Jaegwan, National Assembly member (Cheonan-eul, Chungnam), also said, "Today's just decision was made possible thanks to the citizens who filled Yeouido demanding impeachment and held candles at Gwanghwamun," and stated, "We will build a stronger Republic of Korea so that democracy is never threatened again."
Lee Jeongmoon, National Assembly member (Cheonan-byeong, Chungnam), said, "This is the victory of the people and the natural course of a democratic republic," and emphasized, "With today's verdict resolving Korea's risks, we will restore constitutional order, regain international standing, and overcome trade crises."
Bok Giwang, National Assembly member (Asan-gap, Chungnam), sent a message saying, "The people have finally won. Long live the Republic of Korea."
Kang Hunsik, National Assembly member (Asan-eul, Chungnam), also said, "Once again, the people have saved the country. They have defeated the rebel forces who turned their guns on the National Assembly and the people," and urged, "We must quickly resolve all chaos caused by the rebels. Having overcome this crisis, we can do it again."
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