Yoon Suk-yeol’s return to Seocho triggers noisy protests, cutting local sales by up to 60%. Businesses and residents struggle with disruptions and privacy issues.
Details 🔍
Yoon’s Return to Seocho 🏡
On April 11, 2025, former President Yoon Suk-yeol moved back to his Acro Vista apartment in Seocho, Seoul, after leaving the Hannam-dong presidential residence. His return, following his impeachment over insurrection charges, brought a wave of supporters and protests to the area.
Protests Disrupt Daily Life 🚨
Supporters, waving “Yoon Again” signs and wearing “MKGA” hats inspired by Trump’s “MAGA,” gathered near Seoul Central District Court and Yoon’s home during his first trial on April 14. Despite police bans on protests within 100 meters of the court, around 100 people held “one-person” demonstrations, shouting slogans and blowing horns, causing chaos.
Businesses Suffer Losses 💸
Local shop owners reported a 60% drop in sales on protest days. A noodle shop near the court saw empty tables at lunch, with owners blaming the noise and reduced foot traffic. A barbecue restaurant lost 30-40% of its usual million-won daily revenue, with cancellations piling up. Evening businesses, like a Korean diner, also saw 60% less income.
Noise and Privacy Concerns 📢
Noise levels hit 97.3 decibels—louder than a factory—exceeding police limits of 80 decibels. Cafe patrons complained of ear pain, and residents struggled to rest. YouTubers filming protests without consent angered customers at a convenience store, raising privacy issues.
Residents’ Frustrations 🏢
Acro Vista residents, including students and families, described unbearable noise from protests near Gyodae Station and the court. Weekends were worse, forcing some to leave home for peace. Similar complaints echoed from Hannam-dong when Yoon lived there, showing a pattern of disruption.
Police Challenges 🚔
Police struggled to enforce protest bans, as supporters exploited “one-person” demonstration loopholes to gather in groups. Warnings were issued, but controlling the crowds proved difficult, leaving businesses and residents feeling helpless.
Community Response 🤝
Shop owners discussed solutions but found no easy fix. Some suggested stricter noise regulations, while others hoped for dialogue with protesters. The ongoing trial suggests Seocho’s troubles may persist, testing the community’s patience.
Opinions ⚖️
Support: Right to Protest 👍
Some argue protesters have a right to express support for Yoon, viewing it as free speech. They believe the demonstrations highlight public division over his impeachment and keep his cause visible.
Opposition: Community Harm 👎
Many locals and businesses oppose the protests, citing severe financial losses and disruptions. They argue the noise and privacy invasions outweigh free speech rights, calling for stricter enforcement to protect the community.
Q&A ❓
Why are there protests in Seocho? 🤔
Yoon Suk-yeol’s supporters are protesting his impeachment and trial for insurrection, gathering near his Seocho home and the court to show solidarity.
How are businesses affected? 💸
Sales have dropped by up to 60% due to noise and reduced foot traffic. Restaurants and shops report cancellations and lower revenue on protest days.
What’s causing the noise? 📢
Protesters’ slogans, horns, and rallies hit 97.3 decibels, disrupting businesses and residents, far exceeding the 80-decibel limit set by police.
Why can’t police stop the protests? 🚔
Supporters use “one-person” demonstration loopholes to bypass bans, making it hard for police to control large, noisy gatherings effectively.
How do residents feel? 🏢
Residents are frustrated, unable to rest due to constant noise, especially on weekends, with some leaving home to escape the disturbances.
Terms 📖
Insurrection Charges ⚖️
Legal accusations against Yoon for leading an unlawful attempt to disrupt the government, tied to his 2024 martial law declaration.
One-Person Demonstration 🚶
A legal protest form in South Korea allowing individuals to demonstrate without permits, often exploited to form larger gatherings.
Noise Pollution 📢
Excessive sound, like the 97.3 decibels from protests, harming health and quality of life, with legal limits at 80 decibels.
Acro Vista 🏢
Yoon’s private apartment complex in Seocho, now a focal point for protests and community disruptions.
Misc ℹ️
Labels: Yoon Suk-yeol, Seocho protests, South Korea politics, business impact, noise pollution
