On April 4, 2025, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol faced impeachment, marking a significant political shift in the nation following the unanimous decision by all eight judges of the South Korean Constitutional Court.
This political upheaval sparked notable reactions from various South Korean celebrities, many of whom expressed their sentiments through subtle social media posts. Among these public figures were actors and K-pop stars who showcased their opinions on the impeachment, creating a buzz across different platforms.
Notable Celebrity Reactions to President Yoon’s Impeachment
One prominent star, actor Lee Dong-wook, currently featured in the K-drama The Divorce Insurance, shared a post on his Bubble account. His message alluded to new beginnings, translating to “It is finally spring. Winter was too long,”suggesting a fresh chapter following Yoon’s removal.
In December 2024, Lee had hinted at a more hopeful future by sharing a screenshot of Girls’ Generation’s song Into the New World, accompanied by the comment, “Spring seems to be getting a step closer,”indicating his satisfaction with the political changes.
Another celebrated figure, Wooyoung from the K-pop group ATEEZ, also chimed in with a light-hearted Instagram post. He shared a selfie wearing a light blue shirt, a color associated with left-wing politics in South Korea. His accompanying caption featured a shy smiley emoji, along with the song Bom Bom Bom by Roy Kim, further hinting at his approval of the situation.
Other celebrities also joined the discourse. Actress Park Ji-young posted a snapshot of the breaking news regarding Yoon’s impeachment, while musical actress Kim Ji-woo expressed relief over a long-term migraine disappearing, metaphorically aligned with the political relief many felt. Additionally, actress Shin So-yol criticized Yoon’s governance as dictatorial, portraying her enthusiasm for the president’s dismissal.
Actor Kim Eui-sung shared a group photo with his Lobby castmates, inviting followers to watch the film, possibly as a way to divert attention from current political events. Furthermore, actress Kim Gyu-ri posted a humorous image of ramen topped with scallions, humorously playing on the words “Pa Myun,”which refers to “onion noodles”and, in a punny twist, symbolizes “dismissal.”
The Reasons Behind President Yoon Suk-yeol’s Impeachment
The impeachment of President Yoon comes on the heels of his controversial announcement of martial law in December 2024, which ultimately failed and led authorities to accelerate their efforts to investigate and oust him from power. This decision shocked many, given Yoon’s rapid ascent to political prominence just a year prior.
During his martial law declaration, Yoon referred to the National Assembly as “a den of criminals”and labeled his political adversaries as “anti-state forces”. Following the botched imposition of martial law, he was arrested and subjected to an extensive investigation.
With President Yoon now impeached, South Korea is set to conduct a presidential election within the next two months, marking a critical moment in the nation’s political landscape.