South Korea’s Constitutional Court has officially confirmed the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. This decision comes after Yoon declared martial law in December, a move that triggered the nation’s most significant political crisis in decades.
The court upheld the impeachment, stating that Yoon "violated his duty as commander-in-chief by mobilizing troops" during the martial law declaration. His actions were deemed to exceed the powers granted to him by the constitution. The court’s ruling was met with cheers from Yoon’s critics, who had gathered in large numbers in central Seoul to await the verdict.
The situation escalated dramatically when Yoon sent soldiers and police to the National Assembly, claiming it was necessary to maintain order. However, testimonies from military and police officers revealed that Yoon had instructed them to prevent lawmakers from voting against his decree. The martial law, which suspended existing civilian laws in favor of military control, lasted only about six hours after parliament voted to block it.
Yoon’s impeachment was initiated by the opposition-dominated assembly, which accused him of rebellion. The assembly voted to impeach him on December 14, 2022, citing concerns about his actions and the potential threat to democracy. Yoon defended his decision by arguing that it was intended to protect the country from threats posed by North Korea and anti-state forces, though he did not specify any immediate threats.
The court’s unanimous decision required the agreement of at least six of the eight justices. Following the ruling, crowds erupted in celebration, expressing relief and joy. Many felt that Yoon’s continued presidency could have led to a regression to military rule, recalling South Korea’s past under dictatorship.
In addition to the impeachment, Yoon faces serious legal challenges. In January, he was arrested and charged with rebellion related to his martial law declaration, a crime that could lead to severe penalties if he is convicted.
South Korea must now prepare for a national election within the next two months to choose a new president. Early polling suggests that Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the main opposition Democratic Party, is favored to win. The political landscape in South Korea is shifting rapidly, and the coming weeks will be crucial for the country’s future.