South Korea’s Constitutional Court has officially upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, confirming his removal from office. The conservative leader was impeached in December 2024 after controversially declaring martial law, triggering the nation’s most severe political crisis in decades.
Why Was Yoon Suk Yeol Impeached?
The court ruled that President Yoon violated his duty as commander-in-chief by deploying troops in response to political unrest. His actions were deemed unconstitutional as they exceeded his presidential powers.
Demonstrators stayed overnight near the constitutional court. Pic: AP
Key Events Leading to Yoon’s Removal:
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December 2024: Yoon declares martial law, suspending civilian laws and deploying hundreds of soldiers and police officers to the National Assembly.
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Opposition claims rebellion: Lawmakers accuse Yoon of using military force to prevent an Assembly vote on his decree.
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Six-hour state of emergency: Parliament swiftly votes to block martial law.
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December 14, 2024: The opposition-dominated National Assembly impeaches Yoon, suspending his presidential powers.
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April 2025: The Constitutional Court unanimously upholds the impeachment, leading to his removal from office.
Public Reaction & Legal Consequences
Thousands of protesters and supporters gathered in central Seoul ahead of the ruling. After the verdict, Yoon’s critics celebrated his official removal, marking a historic moment in South Korea’s democracy.
Pro-impeachment citizens waiting for the announcement of the impeachment trial in Seoul. Pic: AP
Yoon, 64, defended his martial law decree as a necessary move to protect national security from threats, including North Korea. However, prosecutors arrested and indicted him in January on rebellion charges, which could result in a life sentence or the death penalty if convicted.
What’s Next for South Korea?
South Korea must now hold a national election within two months to elect a new president. Early polls suggest that Lee Jae-myung, leader of the liberal opposition Democratic Party, is the frontrunner.
Stay updated on South Korea’s leadership transition and the latest political developments.
