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The internet erupted as South Korean citizens were seen blasting BTS' hit song, FIRE, outside the National Assembly following President Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment vote. The symbolic gesture, an apparent nod to the song’s fiery message and youth empowerment themes, came after weeks of mounting political chaos.
On Saturday, December 14, 2024, South Korea's National Assembly successfully passed the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol. On December 7, 2024, a previous impeachment attempt failed due to a lack of quorum after members of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) boycotted the session.
The scene outside the National Assembly on December 14 was striking. Protestors, many waving placards demanding democracy and accountability, amplified BTS' FIRE—a cultural anthem often associated with defiance and energy. The clip from MBC News livestream footage went viral online. Fans praised the symbolic choice, saying it underscored the people's resilience.
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One fan said that BTS has "all kinds of songs for any situation" and that represents their "power".
"I don't get involved in SK politic. I only want K-ARMY to be safe during the rally. 875 doesn't need to get involved in politics. The song is what SK netizens will to let the l message in the song to be heard. Yes, 875 have all kinds of songs for any situation. That's the power."
The BTS ARMY rejoiced as they saw Korean citizens take to the streets and play the iconic song outside the National Assembly building to celebrate President Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment.
"Idk why this makes me teary ... BTS you'll always be famous! Bultaoreune," one fan wrote.
"I just love all of the kpop lighsticks, that's amazing to me," another fan wrote.
"I’m so envious and proud of South Koreans right now… this is absolutely stunning work. Happy holidays to them," one other fan said.
Others underscored BTS' impact as thousands of Korean fans joined the protest and celebration during South Korea's one of the historic marches for democracy.
"That’s what you called impact is, they probably play and sing other song, but they choose bts fire on the news! That what impact is," one fan stated.
"The light of the army bomb is so bright you can immediately spot them in the crowd," another fan noted.
"I hope the people who tried to take advantage of us - tried to divide us and wanted us to start hating K-ARMY feel real dumb right now. I on the other hand am sooooo proud of them! Look at them fighting for their country! Love you K-ARMY," one other fan added.
President Yoon Suk-yeol's impeachment results and background post the martial law fallout
The decision followed public and political backlash stemming from his unprecedented declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, at 11 PM KST.
Reuters reported that President Yoon Suk-yeol accused opposition lawmakers of destabilizing the country, citing "anti-state activities." Martial law was lifted within hours on December 4 after 4 AM due to public outcry and condemnation, but the damage to his administration was done.
On December 14, the impeachment vote marked his second brush with removal. However, Reuters reported that his dwindling popularity and continued investigations into corruption allegations paved the way for renewed efforts.
BBC reported that the travel ban placed on President Yoon Suk-yeol after he declared martial law, alongside investigations into alleged misuse of state funds and political interference, further fueled dissatisfaction.
President Yoon Suk-yeol's decision to impose martial law caused significant political and economic instability. It was reportedly aimed at suppressing opposition-driven legislative gridlocks but ultimately backfired, sparking massive protests and bipartisan calls for accountability.
Within days, multiple high-ranking officials resigned, while opposition (Democratic Party of Korea) leaders seized momentum to push for impeachment.
The Guardian reported that following the impeachment, President Yoon Suk-yeol's powers will be suspended pending a Constitutional Court review, which could take months. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will serve as acting head of state. This marks the second successful presidential impeachment in South Korea’s democratic history, following Park Geun-hye’s removal in 2017.
In other news, BTS' Kim Namjoon (RM), Park Jimin, Min Yoongi (SUGA), Jeon Jungkook, and Kim Taehyung (V) are currently serving in the South Korean military and will return in June 2025.
