‘Impeachment merch’ frenzy in South Korea follows Yoon Suk Yeol’s ouster

SEOUL - Following the Constitutional Court’s landmark ruling that removed President Yoon Suk Yeol

from office on April 4

, some South Koreans are marking the historic moment in an unexpected way – splurging on “impeachment merchandise”.

From collectible keychains and commemorative illustrations to discount coupons and even desserts, social media platforms like X have been flooded with posts offering giveaway events.

Many posts promised free items themed around the impeachment ruling, with some dubbing them “souvenirs of history”.

One user posted a photo of an LED candle used during a pro-impeachment rally, calling it a piece of “historic impeachment merch”, while others promoted limited-edition items commemorating the political watershed.

Perhaps the most sought-after items are the newspaper extras issued on April 4, the day of Yoon’s

impeachment ruling.

These limited publications, often issued during major national events, are selling on secondhand platforms for prices ranging from 1,000 (S$0.90) to 3,000 won each.

A complete collection of the extra editions spanning from Yoon’s declaration of martial law on Dec 3 to his removal is now being listed for over 30,000 won.

“Does anyone know where to get an impeachment extra?” one user asked in an online community, while others posted photos proudly holding their copies, captioned: “Got my impeachment merch.”

Meanwhile, memorabilia from Yoon’s presidency is seeing a dramatic drop in value.

On secondhand markets like Junggonara, listings for “Yoon Suk Yeol wristwatches” – commemorative items produced during his presidency – have spiked since the verdict.

Originally valued at more than 200,000 won at the time of their release, the watches are now trading for as low as 80,000 won. THE KOREA HERALD/ASIA NEWS NETWORK