South Korea's Constitutional Court has unanimously ruled to remove impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol from office due to his controversial martial law declaration. The decision, delivered live on television, triggers fresh presidential elections to be held within 60 days.
Reasons for Impeachment
Yoon, 64, faced suspension by lawmakers following his December 3 attempt to subvert civilian rule, which involved deploying armed soldiers to parliament. He also faces insurrection charges in a separate criminal case. The court found that Yoon's actions violated the core principles of the rule of law and democratic governance, undermining the political neutrality of the armed forces.
Court's Decision
Acting court President Moon Hyung-bae stated, "Given the serious negative impact and far-reaching consequences of the respondent’s constitutional violations… (We) dismiss respondent President Yoon Suk Yeol." The judges emphasized that Yoon's actions were a betrayal of public trust and constituted a serious violation of the law.
Reactions
Outside the court, supporters of Yoon threatened violence against the judges, prompting increased security protection. Opposition party lawmakers applauded the verdict, calling it "historic," while Yoon apologized for failing to meet the people's "expectations."
Historical Context
Yoon is the second South Korean leader to be impeached by the court, following Park Geun-hye in 2017.
Security Measures
Police had raised the security alert to the highest level, encircling the courthouse and stationing special operations teams in the vicinity. Anti-Yoon protesters celebrated the verdict, expressing relief and triumph.
Expert Opinion
Byunghwan Son, a professor at George Mason University, noted that the decision demonstrates the resilience of South Korean democracy, highlighting its ability to withstand even the most severe challenges, including a coup attempt.
Economic Impact
The Korean won experienced a sharp increase against the US dollar following the court's announcement, with Seoul's benchmark KOSPI also showing gains.
Leadership Transition
Acting President Han Duck-soo will remain in charge until new elections are held. National Assembly speaker Woo Won-shik emphasized that the ruling reaffirms that no one in South Korea is above the law and that unconstitutional actions must be held accountable. Yoon also faces a separate criminal trial on charges of insurrection related to the martial law bid.