Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol will leave his official residence on Friday and move back to his private apartment in Seoul.
His departure comes a week after the Constitutional Court confirmed his impeachment, following his controversial move to impose martial law in December. This decision caused political unrest in South Korea.
A large crowd, including both supporters and critics, is expected to gather as Yoon travels in a motorcade with his wife and over 10 pets to their new home in a 37-story building.
South Korea will now hold a special presidential election on June 3. Nearly 20 candidates are expected to compete for the nomination from the conservative People Power Party, which is trying to stay in power. However, a popular liberal candidate currently leads in the polls.
Yoon is also facing a serious trial for allegedly leading an insurrection—a crime that could result in life in prison or even the death penalty if he’s found guilty.
After being released from jail on March 8, Yoon has stayed out of the public eye. He did not attend the impeachment hearing on April 4. But some members of his party and supporters have visited him at the official residence, where he has reportedly talked about the upcoming election.
Interestingly, most former South Korean presidents have moved into detached homes after their time in office, making Yoon’s move to a high-rise apartment unusual.