South Korea’s Constitutional Court has unanimously upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, officially removing him from office.
President Yoon was suspended in December after declaring martial law in a controversial move that was widely criticized as an authoritarian power grab.
The court’s ruling marks a significant moment for South Korea’s democracy, which many feared was on precarious ground.
The decision, delivered by acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae, condemned Yoon’s actions as unconstitutional, stating that his martial law declaration “damaged people’s basic political rights” and violated democratic principles.
The court emphasized that Yoon’s justification for the military takeover was baseless and went against the very people he was meant to protect.
The ruling has sparked mixed reactions across the country. While many celebrated the verdict as a victory for democracy, others expressed sadness and dismay. The streets of Seoul were filled with both cheers and tears as citizens gathered to witness the historic moment.
A snap election to choose Yoon’s replacement must now be held by June 3, 2025.
