When U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Korea, Tuesday, it was not just President Moon Jae-in who came to greet him ― from early morning, supporters and opponents of Trump gathered in various parts of the country awaiting the U.S. leader.
At Camp Humphreys ― Trump's first official destination and a newly expanded U.S. military base in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul ― over 1,500 conservative civic group members waved American and Korean flags, shouting "We love Trump,"alongside banners hailing the two country's alliance.
On the other side, a smaller group of around 20 people stood with posters written, "No Trump, No War."
But the largest rallies took place near Cheong Wa Dae and Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul, where an anti-Trump alliance of over 220 liberal civic organizations filled the streets.
Beginning with a press briefing in front of the Cheongun-dong office near the presidential office before noon, the group members made their way to Gwanghwamun Square.
From morning, 15,600 police officers blanketed the area, boosting security measures against possible contingencies. Gwanghwamun Square was surrounded by a wired fence and bus barricade.
Various events were planned throughout the day, including a candlelit rally in Gwanghwamun Square and march to Cheong Wa Dae.
Left-leaning religious groups held prayers for peace; others plan on continuing their demonstrations throughout the night near where Trump is staying.
Conservative Christians and other right-wing groups also took part in demonstrations across the capital.
An ultra-right wing Korea Patriots' Party held a "Taeguekgi" rally in support of Trump in front of the press center, central Seoul. On its website, it was written, "our enemy is North Korea, and the U.S. is our ally. As a country that respects freedom and human rights, it will help (former) President Park Geun-hye."
Both sides plan to continue the rallies Wednesday before Trump takes off for China.