In a landmark decision on April 4, 2025, at 11:22 AM KST, South Korea's Constitutional Court upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, officially removing him from office. This ruling comes 122 days after Yoon's controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, which lasted only six hours before being overturned by the National Assembly.
Background of the Crisis
President Yoon's brief imposition of martial law in December 2024 led to significant political turmoil. He was accused of attempting to suppress legislative activities by deploying troops to the National Assembly, actions that were widely condemned as unconstitutional. The National Assembly voted to impeach Yoon on December 14, 2024, leading to his suspension from presidential duties pending the Constitutional Court's review.
Constitutional Court's Ruling
The Constitutional Court's decision required a minimum of six out of eight justices to agree to uphold the impeachment. The court found that President Yoon's actions constituted a violation of the Constitution, thereby justifying his removal from office.
Immediate Consequences
With the court's ruling, President Yoon is permanently removed from office, and a new presidential election must be held within 60 days, as mandated by South Korea's Constitution. In the interim, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will assume presidential duties.
Public and International Reactions
The impeachment has deeply divided the nation, with large rallies of both supporters and opponents taking place in downtown Seoul. Security measures have been heightened in anticipation of potential unrest. Internationally, the event has drawn significant attention, reflecting concerns about stability in the region.
Looking Ahead
This unprecedented event marks a significant moment in South Korea's democratic history. The upcoming presidential election will be closely watched, both domestically and internationally, as the nation seeks to move forward from this political crisis.
Now, I believe that Korea will become one of the representative countries of democracy.
As a Korean, I am proud of all citizens of democracy, and I believe that Korea will become a better country than yesterday.
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