South Korea's Constitutional Court Upholds Yoon's Impeachment

South Korea’s Constitutional Court on Friday unanimously upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, removing him from office four months after his controversial declaration of martial law plunged the country into political upheaval.

Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae announced that all eight justices ruled against Yoon, citing his unconstitutional decision to impose martial law without clear justification and his use of military and police forces to obstruct legislative proceedings.

Martial Law Order Sparks Crisis

Yoon’s abrupt declaration of martial law—despite the absence of any immediate security threat—triggered chaos in May when he deployed troops to the National Assembly as opposition lawmakers moved to block the decree. Though the order was lifted within six hours, the fallout destabilized financial markets and strained diplomatic relations.

“The defendant’s actions undermined constitutional order and caused widespread disruption across society,” Moon said, adding that the court’s decision prioritized safeguarding democracy over preserving Yoon’s presidency.

Yoon’s removal mandates a new presidential election within 60 days. Acting President Han Duck-soo, who assumed office following the impeachment vote, pledged to maintain stability during the transition.

“I will ensure no gaps in national security or diplomacy and uphold public order until the election is held,” Han said in a televised address. “The government will respect the people’s will and facilitate a lawful, peaceful transfer of power.”

Yoon’s Fall From Grace

A former prosecutor with no prior political experience, Yoon rose to power in 2022 as the conservative People Power Party’s candidate, winning the election by a razor-thin margin. His tenure was marked by fierce clashes with the opposition, which secured a legislative majority in last year’s parliamentary elections—widely viewed as a rebuke of his leadership.

Yoon built his campaign on promises to dismantle the Gender Equality Ministry, appealing to anti-feminist sentiments, and adopted a hardline stance against North Korea, diverging from his predecessor’s engagement policy. However, his presidency unraveled amid accusations of authoritarian overreach.

In a statement released by his legal team, Yoon expressed “deep regret” for failing to meet public expectations but called it an “honor” to serve. Outside his residence, supporters wept as the verdict was broadcast, waving South Korean and U.S. flags in protest.

The court’s decision underscores the gravity of Yoon’s violations, with Moon stating the ruling was necessary to “protect constitutional values” despite the upheaval of removing a sitting president.