SEOUL, South Korea – In a landmark decision, South Korea’s Constitutional Court unanimously ruled on Friday to remove President Yoon Suk-yeol from office, citing a grave violation of constitutional rights following his controversial declaration of martial law last year.
Reading the court’s verdict, Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae stated that Yoon had grossly overstepped his presidential powers by deploying military and police forces in Seoul in December. “The defendant mobilised military and police forces to dismantle the authority of constitutional institutions and infringed upon the fundamental rights of the people,” Moon declared.
The court concluded that President Yoon “abandoned his constitutional duty to uphold the constitution and gravely betrayed the trust of the Korean people.” The ruling emphasized that restoring constitutional order outweighed the costs of dismissing a sitting president.
Martial Law Decree Sparks Impeachment and Legal Fallout
Yoon justified the martial law decree at the time by claiming that North Korean and anti-state forces had infiltrated the government. However, high-ranking officials later testified that Yoon had ordered them to detain opposition lawmakers and obstruct the National Assembly from voting on the decree.
The National Assembly impeached Yoon on December 14, 2024, but his formal removal required court approval. With Friday’s ruling, Yoon becomes the second South Korean president removed from office via impeachment.
Yoon Accepts Ruling; Presidential Election Due in 60 Days
Following the court’s announcement, Yoon issued a statement: “Dear citizens, it has been a great honour to work for the Republic of Korea. I am deeply grateful to all of you who have supported and cheered for me, despite my many shortcomings.”
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The South Korean government must now hold a presidential election within 60 days. Acting President Han Duck-soo will remain in charge during the interim period.
Loss of Privileges and Legal Challenges Ahead
Yoon now faces a series of legal challenges, including potential charges of abuse of power. While serving as president, he was only subject to a treason investigation. His removal opens the door to additional prosecutions.
He has been stripped of all presidential privileges, including staff support and an official driver. He is no longer eligible for the presidential pension and must vacate the presidential residence. Furthermore, he will not receive a state burial.
Public Reactions: Celebration, Reflection, and Protests
Outside the Constitutional Court, reactions were divided. Opponents of Yoon cheered as the verdict was read, while his supporters—many of them older citizens—remained subdued, some muttering accusations of a “rigged” system.
One resident, Park Heon-hyung, expressed admiration for fellow citizens: “It’s not the people in power who make differences. It’s the ordinary citizens who make change happen.”
Protester Chang Ug-jin, who had camped outside the court overnight, said he “couldn’t suppress [his] tears of joy.” He added, “It was a sign that South Korea’s democracy lives on.”
Heightened Security Across Seoul
Authorities deployed approximately 14,000 police officers across the capital. Barricades, including tourist buses used as roadblocks, surrounded the court. Nearby businesses, subway stations, and schools were closed for the day.
These extraordinary precautions were implemented following deadly protests in 2017 after the impeachment of President Park Geun-hye. Four people were killed in those demonstrations.
Political Fallout and Future Rallies
Yoon’s impeachment has ignited political tension across South Korea, with demonstrations both supporting and opposing the president ongoing since his arrest in January.
Far-right pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon, a Yoon supporter, has called for a massive protest at Gwanghwamun Square on Saturday, urging “everyone who can’t accept the impeachment” to rally in central Seoul.
Meanwhile, the pro-impeachment camp is planning a celebratory gathering while calling for investigations into Yoon’s supporters and those involved in the martial law decree.
Looking Ahead
As South Korea prepares for a new presidential election, the country reflects on a moment that underscores the strength—and the fragility—of its democratic institutions. The impeachment of President Yoon serves as a powerful reminder of constitutional accountability and the enduring influence of civic activism in South Korean politics.
