South Korean President Yoon ousted from office as constitutional court upholds impeachment

Ammon

04-04-2025

Ammon News - President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea was officially removed from office on Friday after the Constitutional Court unanimously upheld the parliament's decision to impeach him. The ruling followed Yoon's controversial declaration of martial law last year, which triggered one of the most significant political crises the nation has seen in decades.
The decision brings an end to months of political instability that had complicated South Korea's response to major issues, including its relationship with the new U.S. administration under President Donald Trump and economic concerns in Asia's fourth-largest economy.
Under South Korea's constitution, a new presidential election must now be held within 60 days. Until then, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will continue as acting president.
Commenting on the court's verdict, Professor Leif-Eric Easley of Ewha University in Seoul said, 'The unanimous ruling by the Constitutional Court removes a major uncertainty—just in time, given the challenges ahead with North Korea, diplomatic tensions with China, and trade pressures from the Trump administration.'
Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae stated that Yoon had overstepped his constitutional authority with the martial law order issued on December 3, calling it a "serious threat to democracy." He added, 'President Yoon gravely betrayed the trust of the people, who are the true sovereigns of the republic,' noting that the move had caused turmoil across society, the economy, and foreign affairs.
The court's decision was met with loud celebration by thousands of demonstrators outside the courthouse, many of whom had been protesting for weeks. "This took a long time, but thankfully the result is fair," said 23-year-old student Kim Han-sol, who watched the ruling live at the rally.
In contrast, supporters of Yoon gathered near his official residence were left in shock. Some wept openly, while others reacted with anger. According to Yonhap News Agency, one individual was arrested for damaging a police vehicle.
Despite the political drama, financial markets remained relatively stable. The Korean won held steady at around 1% higher against the U.S. dollar, trading at 1,436.6. The KOSPI index dipped by 0.7%, showing little change from earlier in the day, as investors had largely anticipated the court's decision.