In a landmark decision on April 4, 2025, South Korea's Constitutional Court unanimously upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, effectively removing him from office. This ruling follows Yoon's controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, a move that has deeply divided the nation and raised significant questions about the resilience of South Korea's democratic institutions.

The court's decision underscores the gravity of Yoon's actions, particularly his deployment of military forces to the National Assembly without sufficient justification. This unprecedented event has not only led to Yoon's removal but also set the stage for a presidential election within 60 days, with Prime Minister Han Duck-soo serving as acting president in the interim. The case highlights the delicate balance between executive power and constitutional law in South Korea's evolving democracy.

Background on Yoon Suk Yeol's Presidency

Elected in 2022, Yoon's tenure was marked by bold decisions and a confrontational approach toward opposition parties. His administration faced numerous challenges, including legislative gridlock and declining public approval.

Details of the Martial Law Declaration

On December 3, 2024, President Yoon declared emergency martial law, citing threats from "anti-state forces" and accusing the opposition of plotting rebellion. Approximately 280 soldiers were deployed to the National Assembly, effectively barring lawmakers from entering. The opposition-controlled National Assembly swiftly convened and voted unanimously to demand the lifting of martial law, which Yoon complied with after approximately six hours.

Impeachment Proceedings

The opposition bloc initiated impeachment proceedings, arguing that Yoon's declaration lacked the necessary constitutional conditions. The National Assembly passed the impeachment motion on December 14, 2024, leading to Yoon's suspension pending the Constitutional Court's review.

Constitutional Court's Ruling

On April 4, 2025, the Constitutional Court delivered a unanimous 8–0 decision upholding Yoon's impeachment. The court cited five major illegal acts committed by Yoon, including obstructing legislative functions and misusing military power.

Interim Leadership and Upcoming Elections

With Yoon's removal, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo serves as acting president. South Korea is required to hold a presidential election within 60 days to elect a new leader. Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party is considered a frontrunner in the upcoming election.

Potential Criminal Charges

Yoon now faces potential criminal charges related to his declaration of martial law and the subsequent deployment of troops. He has been indicted for leading an insurrection, becoming the first sitting president to be arrested and indicted in South Korean history.

Social and Political Implications

The impeachment has significantly polarized South Korean society, with massive rallies both in support of and against Yoon's ouster. The crisis has exposed vulnerabilities in South Korea's democratic institutions and led to calls for constitutional reform.

Historical Context

This event marks the second time a South Korean president has been removed from office through impeachment, following the removal of President Park Geun-hye in 2017. The recurrence of such a significant political crisis within a decade underscores ongoing challenges in South Korea's political landscape.

The Constitutional Court's decision to uphold President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment is a pivotal moment in South Korea's democratic journey. As the nation prepares for new elections, the resilience of its democratic institutions and the unity of its people will be crucial in navigating this period of political transition.