South Korea’s Constitutional Court reinstated Prime Minister Han Duck-soo as acting president on Monday, overturning his impeachment in a landmark decision. Han, who had been suspended from office, pledged to focus on stabilizing the country and steering Asia’s fourth-largest economy through a U.S. “trade war.”
Political Crisis and Leadership Shakeup
The ruling restores Han to power immediately, following months of intense political upheaval. He assumed the acting presidency after President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached in December for imposing martial law, a move that sent shockwaves through the nation.
“I believe the people are making it very clear, in one voice, that the extreme confrontation in politics must stop,” Han said in a televised statement. He thanked the court for its “wise decision” and expressed gratitude to his cabinet for their dedication during his suspension.
Han emphasized his commitment to maintaining stable governance and safeguarding South Korea’s economic interests amid escalating trade tensions with the United States. The country, a leading global exporter, faces the threat of additional tariffs under U.S. President Donald Trump, who has been critical of South Korea’s trade policies.
Trade War Concerns Loom Over South Korea
South Korea has already been subjected to U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum and is seeking an exemption from further reciprocal tariffs set to take effect next month. Trump recently accused South Korea of imposing excessive tariffs on American exports, adding strain to the already tense trade relationship.
The impeachment of Yoon and subsequent government instability have exacerbated economic concerns, creating uncertainty for investors and businesses. Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok had temporarily assumed the role of acting president while the Constitutional Court deliberated on Yoon and Han’s cases.
Court’s Ruling and Han’s Return to Power
The Constitutional Court ruled seven to one in favor of striking down Han’s impeachment. The decision marks a turning point in South Korea’s political crisis, which had led to a power vacuum amid a series of impeachments, resignations, and criminal investigations involving top officials.
Han, 75, has served in leadership roles under five different presidents across the political spectrum. His extensive experience and bipartisan track record make him a rare figure in the nation’s polarized political landscape.
Despite his reinstatement, opposition lawmakers have criticized Han for not doing enough to prevent Yoon’s declaration of martial law. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the opposition Democratic Party, urged the court to expedite its ruling on Yoon’s impeachment, which is expected within days. If Yoon is removed from office, a new presidential election will be held within 60 days.
Public and International Reactions
South Korea has witnessed large, mostly peaceful protests in recent months, with citizens divided between supporting Yoon and demanding his removal.
Lim Ji-bong, a law professor at Sogang University, suggested the court is likely to rule against Yoon, stating that justices may seek to “make a bold decision to stop deepening national divisions.”
The unexpected imposition of martial law on December 3 led to widespread political unrest and drew concern from key allies, including the United States. Former President Joe Biden had regarded Yoon as a strategic partner in countering China and North Korea. However, South Korea’s National Assembly swiftly rejected the martial law declaration within six hours, defying a security blockade around parliament.
As South Korea navigates this critical moment, the reinstatement of Han Duck-soo signals an attempt to restore political stability and economic resilience amid domestic and international challenges.
Reuters
