South Korea’s Constitutional Court on Friday ousted impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol from office. The court in South Korea also confirmed the National Assembly’s December impeachment vote as his declaration of martial law had “grave negative impact” on the constitutional order.
In a nationally broadcasted judgment, at least six of the eight justices ruled in favor of Yoon’s ouster.
“Given the grave negative impact on constitutional order and the significant ripple effects of the defendant’s violations, we find that the benefits of upholding the constitution by removing the defendant from office far outweigh the national losses from the removal of a president,” the court’s acting chief Moon Hyung-bae said.
Presidency Ends, Election Looms in South Korea
The decision brings an end to his tumultuous presidency four months after he plunged South Korean politics into crisis and requires a new presidential election within two months.
“The defendant not only declared martial law, but also violated the constitution and laws by mobilising military and police forces to obstruct the exercise of legislative authority. Ultimately, the declaration of martial law in this case violated the substantive requirements for emergency martial law,” the justice added.
The action will remake South Korea’s politics, at least for now, as his supporters remain mobilized. Meanwhile, the military has increased surveillance in certain areas of Seoul, stoking fears of possible unrest.
Interim Leader Calls for Calm in South Korea
South Korea’s acting leader called on the country on Wednesday to stay calm and accept the Constitutional Court’s forthcoming decision on President Yoon Suk Yeol‘s impeachment.
At a ministerial session centered on security ahead of the historic ruling, acting President Han Duck soo emphasized the need to keep the peace and called on politicians to refrain from making comments that might trigger unrest, “The government will not tolerate any illegal or violent acts. No matter what decision is made, we must accept the results calmly based on the rule of law,” Han stated.
“If we can become one again with your strength and wisdom, we can overcome this crisis of confusion and conflicts,” he added.
Why Did Yoon Get Impeached?
Yoon’s impeachment arose out of a political crisis following his proclamation of martial law on 3 December 2024.
In the midst of a bitter legislative standoff with the opposition-held National Assembly, Yoon sent hundreds of troops and police to government buildings, including the National Assembly and election offices. He justified the action as a necessary step to restore order and reveal what he called the opposition’s “wickedness” in hindering governance.
Public and Political Backlash in South Korea
But opposition leaders and lawyers decried the action as an unconstitutional grab for authority, accusing Yoon of trying to stifle democracy and unlawfully imprison legislators. His martial law order only survived for six hours before the legislature acted quickly to repeal it, but the damage was done.
By December’s end, the National Assembly officially impeached Yoon, which automatically suspended his presidential powers as the Constitutional Court heard the case.
The motion for impeachment accused Yoon of constitutional breaches, interference with legislative work, and weakening democratic institutions. Millions of people protested on the streets—some supporting Yoon, while others called for his removal in perpetuity.
The ruling has brought furious reactions from both sides. Tens of thousands of Yoon’s backers and detractors met in downtown Seoul waiting for the verdict. Hundreds of police buses, barricades, and policemen were mobilized by the government to ward off possible clashes.
During a massive anti-Yoon rally, demonstrators chanted and waved flags supporting opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, while others observed the court hearing on a giant screen, recording the moment on their phones.
