Former President Park Geun-hye was set free Friday under a presidential pardon, after four years and nine months of imprisonment following her impeachment and ouster from office for corruption.
The government said the decision was made in consideration of her deteriorating health and as part of efforts to promote national unity.
Her supporters have held rallies near the hospital in southern Seoul to celebrate her release. A number of standing flower wreaths with messages wishing her good health have lined a street near the hospital.