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On April 4, South Korea’s constitutional court upheld the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol.
The court’s decision was unanimous (8-0), making him the second president removed from office in the last eight years.
The constitution mandates that South Korea elect a new president within 60 days.
What Led to His Impeachment?
On December 3, 2024, President Yoon declared martial law to protect South Korea from “anti-state forces” and “pro-North Koreans.”
The National Assembly lifted the martial law, and on December 14, the Assembly voted to impeach him, with 204 votes in favor.
The Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) holds a majority in the National Assembly, while President Yoon's People’s Power Party (PPP) has fewer seats.
What Happened After Impeachment?
The announcement of martial law and impeachment sparked widespread protests across the country.
Thousands supported Mr. Yoon, while 200,000 protested for his removal.
On January 17, the Corruption Investigation Office sought an arrest warrant for Mr. Yoon, which led to further attacks on the courthouse.
During his final hearing, Mr. Yoon claimed his actions were to warn against anti-state forces.
What Does the Verdict Say?
The constitutional court upheld the impeachment, saying Mr. Yoon did not follow constitutional rules and procedures.
It stated his martial law declaration was not to protect the state but to undermine the National Assembly.
His actions were seen as a threat to military neutrality and created conflict between the military and the people.
The court dismissed his claims of election fraud and ruled that he violated the constitutional process, leading to his removal.
What Is Next for South Korea?
Presidential elections will take place in June.
There is high tension, with interim leaders and security forces maintaining order.
The PPP is in disarray, with many of Mr. Yoon’s supporters seeing him as wronged.
Lee Jae-Myung of the DPK is a leading candidate.
South Korea also faces external challenges, including a 25% tariff imposed by the U.S., which the new president will need to address.
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