Photos: How South Korean protesters filled the streets to demand Yoon's departure

Tens of thousands of South Koreans across the country rallied in the streets outside the National Assembly in Seoul on Saturday to demand the ouster of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Mr. Yoon briefly imposed martial law on Tuesday, reopening old wounds and plunging the country into political chaos. The attempt to impeach Mr. Yoon failed to garner the required number of votes, continuing the political upheaval and uncertainty that shook the country this week.

Protests in the city and across the country have intensified since Mr Yoon's bold move on Tuesday. The rally at the National Assembly ahead of Saturday's impeachment vote was the largest ever, despite freezing temperatures. Around 3 p.m., the places in front of the National Assembly were filled.

People waved flags representing unions, human rights groups and small political parties. Police officers, dressed in fluorescent jackets, were lined up along the crowd to maintain order.

As the main boulevard in front of the National Assembly filled with demonstrators, people moved towards the street which crosses the facade of the complex.

Meanwhile, in another area of ​​Seoul, supporters of Mr. Yoon gathered near Gwanghwamun Square. Chairs were set up for supporters, unlike the crowds seated on the ground outside the National Assembly. Shortly after the impeachment vote began, speakers were quick to announce that impeachment seemed unlikely, and the crowd began to jubilant.

Protesters in front of the National Assembly remained late into the night, as the voting session dragged on. People held candles and colorful glow sticks. South Korea has a tradition of holding candlelight rallies to express political dissent.

As 9 p.m. approached, it became clear that there were not enough votes to impeach Mr. Yoon and the crowd began to disperse.

However, many protesters said they would not give up. “I plan to come every weekend,” said Subin Park, 29, who came from Bucheon, west of Seoul. “I hope there will be a lot of people from Monday.”