South Koreans rally anew in Seoul against President Park Geun-hye

South Koreans have taken to the streets in the capital, Seoul, and elsewhere in fresh rallies demanding the resignation of the scandal-hit President Park Geun-hye.

Up to half a million protesters are expected by organizers to participate in the Seoul rally, and the same number in other cities, on Saturday for the fourth straight week in a row.

The mass anti-Park demonstrations, accompanied by fierce opposition at the parliament, have posed a real challenge to the president, who has nevertheless been defiant of calls on her to step down.

Park’s scandal involves her long-time friend and confidante Choi Soon-sil, who is accused of influence-peddling.

This image shows cut-offs worn by protesters of Choi Soon-sil (L) and President Park Geun-hye.

Choi, 60, is said to have used her influence to extort money from large companies like Samsung to non-profit foundations which she set up and used for personal gain.

She is also accused of interfering in government affairs, despite holding no official position.

Reports of the influence Choi wielded over Park have seen the president’s approval ratings plunge to 5% which is a record low for a sitting president.

Protesters hold red banners calling for the resignation of South Korean President Park Geun-hye during an anti-government rally in central Seoul, November 19, 2016. (Photo by AFP)

But President Park has offered two formal televised apologies and reshuffled her ministerial cabinet and aides in an attempt to appease the protesters.

Park has also agreed to relinquish some of her extensive presidential powers and submit to a probe by an independent special prosecutor to be appointed by the parliament.

Meanwhile, a smaller rally was held by Park’s supporters in downtown Seoul on Saturday.

Conservative groups, including a fan club of President Park called “Parksamo,” gathered in front of the Seoul Train Station to oppose calls for the resignation of the president.