President Yoon Suk-yeol, released from detention on March 8 and returned to the presidential residence, rested early after having dinner with his wife Kim Keon-hee and aides, the presidential office said.
Earlier that afternoon, Yoon was released from the Seoul Detention Center in Uiwang, Gyeonggi Province. He walked out of the main gate, bowing and waving to supporters who had been waiting for him. While smiling brightly, he also became emotional as he looked at them.
Yoon then boarded a security service vehicle and headed to the presidential residence in Hannam-dong, Yongsan district. Upon arrival, he greeted and shook hands with supporters before entering the residence, where he hugged his dogs one by one.
President Yoon had kimchi jjigae (Korean stew) for dinner with first lady Kim, Chief of Staff Chung Jin-suk, Deputy Chief of the PSS Kim Seong-hoon, and personal secretary Kang Ui-goo. He reportedly said, “I’m in good health, and getting plenty of sleep has made me feel even healthier.”
Reflecting on his time in detention, Yoon shared, “Even a president can learn a lot from a detention center. I read the Bible diligently.” He also recalled past acquaintances who had been incarcerated, wondering how they had endured their time. He added, “I saw how much correctional officers work under difficult conditions.”
After dinner, Yoon moved to his private quarters with his dogs to rest. A presidential office official said, “President Yoon is expected to take the day off with no special plans.” Aides have decided to avoid scheduling visits to allow him uninterrupted rest.
Yoon urged his staff, saying, “For the sake of the country and the people, I hope the presidential office remains firm and steadfast in managing national affairs.”
