Members of the Democratic Party of Korea criticized former President Yoon Seok-yeol's departure from the People Power Party on the 17th, stating, “He should have been expelled.” They particularly pointed out that there was no reflection on the 12.3 state of emergency related to Yoon's message to the public coinciding with his departure.

Former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who is indicted on charges including the leadership of a rebellion related to the Dec. 3 state of emergency, is leaving the court after completing the morning session of the third trial held at the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul, on Dec. 12. /Courtesy of News1

Democratic Party of Korea member Kim Yong-min said on Facebook that day, “Yoon Seok-yeol's departure? He should have been expelled,” adding, “The People Power Party is still advocating for insurrection!”

Lee Jae-myung's chief of staff, lawmaker Lee Hae-sik, stated, “(Former President Yoon) issued a message to the public while departing. This is outrageous,” and criticized, “There is not a single word of apology to the people, and there is no reflection on why he had to leave. It makes me want to curse.”

Democratic Party of Korea Co-chairman Kim Min-seok remarked that former President Yoon is trying to evade responsibility for the state of emergency with his departure, stating, “Yoon Seok-yeol. I will leave, so please grant me a pardon!” Democratic Party member Choi Min-hee said, “Yoon Seok-yeol's departure! Now Kweon Seong-dong, Chu Kyung-ho, Yoon Han-hong, and other ‘true Yoon’ members should leave as well.”

Former President Yoon announced his voluntary departure from the People Power Party that day. He said on Facebook, “Dear party members, I am leaving the People Power Party today,” stating, “Though I may leave the party, I will fight for the defense of freedom and sovereignty. Please support Kim Moon-soo of the People Power Party.”