Supporters of arrested South Korean president Yoon draw parallels between his and Trump’s claims of election fraud

Yoon supporters at these demonstrations told CNA that they hope to grab the United States president-elect’s attention and get him to show support for Yoon.

“We are facing serious election fraud and a huge threat from pro-North spies who want to endanger the South Korea-US alliance … I hope he (Trump) will pay attention to South Korea and provide strong support,” said university student Hong Hyeon-young.

Shortly after the South Korean parliament voted on Dec 14 to impeach Yoon, Yoon reportedly met a close ally of Trump – American Conservative Union chairman Matthew Schlapp.

They are said to have discussed political developments in South Korea, including martial law and impeachment.

Both countries have a long-standing military alliance, with the US stationing nearly 30,000 troops in South Korea to protect it from the nuclear-armed North.

Elderly South Koreans are often seen waving American flags alongside South Korea’s national flag at conservative rallies.

They vividly remember the US coming to their aid during the Korean War in the 1950s, and believe a strong alliance with Washington is crucial for Seoul to deter threats from Pyongyang.