The Constitutional Court of South Korea unanimously decided to uphold the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, leading to his removal from office four months after he had plunged the nation into political turmoil with an ill-advised declaration of martial law. Demonstrators in Seoul erupted in cheers upon hearing the news, marking a significant downfall for Yoon, who had risen to presidency just over a year after entering politics, having previously been a prominent prosecutor.

The court’s acting chief, Moon Hyung-bae, affirmed the decision based on Yoon’s martial law declaration. Despite no immediate security threats, Yoon’s deployment of soldiers to parliament provoked a political crisis, unsettling financial markets and diplomatic allies. His martial law order, although brief, violated the constitution by utilizing military and police forces to impede legislative authority.

Yoon’s removal will lead to new presidential elections within two months. In a statement issued through his defense team, he expressed deep regret for not meeting public expectations and honored his service to the Republic of Korea. He contended that his martial law order was a response to the opposition Democratic Party’s alleged obstruction and threats to dismantle his government budget.

Without presidential immunity, Yoon may now face additional criminal charges, such as abuse of power. Surveys suggest that Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the main liberal opposition Democratic Party, is the frontrunner in the upcoming by-election, with Lee himself facing trials for corruption and other charges.

Source: https://www.euronews.com/2025/04/04/south-koreas-president-yoon-suk-yeol-impeached-over-marital-law-order