Violent student protests in Seoul over amnesty

SEOUL, December 22: Former South Korean presidents Chun Doo Hwan and Roh Tae Woo today walked out of prison with all their civil rights restored but their release immediately triggered a violent protest demonstration by students.

Chun and Roh, who were jailed for treason, mutiny and massive corruption, were released from Anyang Detention House and Seoul Detention Centre respectively this morning after incumbent President Kim Young Sam agreed to grant them amnesty which was supported by President-elect Kim Dae-Jung.

Amid rejoicing from relatives and supporters, the general-turned-presidents apologised for their past misdeeds and thanked the two Kims.

Story continues below this ad

But the move sparked the first protest as riot police fired teargas shells at some 400 students protesting against the release on amnesty of the two former presidents at the campus of Yonsei University.

However, there were no immediate reports of any casualty or injury.