Former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who was removed from office by a Constitutional Court ruling on Apr. 4, spent the weekend at the presidential residence in Seoul’s Hannam-dong neighborhood. During his stay, Yoon met with aides from the presidential office, his legal counsel, and several members of the People Power Party (PPP). He has also begun preparations to vacate the residence and return to his private home in Seocho-dong, Seoul, where he is expected to move in the middle or latter part of this week.
On the day the court handed down its ruling, Yoon reportedly had lunch with several aides and later shared dinner with his legal team. A person close to Yoon said the former president remained composed despite the somber atmosphere. “He said it felt like he was starting a new chapter in life,” the source said. Another associate noted that Yoon’s demeanor echoed the resolve he had shown as a prosecutor, when he faced disciplinary actions and demotions while investigating figures in power. “He appeared ready to face the difficulties ahead without retreat,” the associate said.
On Apr. 5, Yoon held a private tea meeting with PPP lawmaker Na Kyung-won at the residence. Na had publicly raised procedural concerns about the investigation and impeachment process. Yoon reportedly thanked Na for her efforts during a difficult time, telling her, “I appreciate all that you’ve done during this challenging time.” He also expressed concern about the country’s growing internal and external challenges, as well as the fast-approaching early presidential election. “I’m deeply worried about the direction this country is heading,” he was quoted as saying. The meeting, which Yoon initiated, was held without any aides in attendance. On Apr. 4, Yoon also met with PPP interim leader Kwon Young-se and Floor Leader Kwon Seong-dong. During the discussion, he urged party leadership to prepare thoroughly for the upcoming election, emphasizing that “time is short” and expressing hope for a successful outcome. Some within the party interpreted his remarks as a warning against internal divisions that could facilitate a power shift to opposition leader Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party (DP).
On Apr. 6, Yoon issued a message to his supporters through his attorney. “Your efforts to protect freedom and sovereignty in the face of a grave national crisis will go down as part of Korea’s proud history,” he said. “Though I’ve stepped down from the presidency, I will always stand with you.” He also directed a message to young people, saying, “You are the future of this country. As long as our youth do not lose courage, our future remains bright. No matter how difficult today’s reality may be, never give in. Stay confident and brave.” He went on to recall the night of Feb. 13, when his supporters filled Cheonggye Plaza in central Seoul. “I remember your first rallying cries that filled the square. Though I was in detention, my heart was with you,” he said.
Following the release of Yoon’s statement, speculation emerged within the PPP that he may be positioning himself to influence the early presidential election. A lawmaker aligned with Yoon dismissed the idea that he would endorse a specific candidate during the party’s primary but noted, “He may still speak out against the legislative overreach and series of impeachments by the DP, which he believes have paralyzed the government.” The comment fueled speculation that Yoon could continue issuing political messages from his private residence, engaging in what some have described as “residence-based politics.” By contrast, former President Park Geun-hye relocated to her home just two days after being impeached but remained out of the public spotlight for an extended period.
