South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been officially removed from the post of the head of state, and snap elections will be held in the country.
On April 4, at 11:00 a.m. local time, the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Korea announced its decision – to uphold the impeachment of the head of state announced by the parliament, thus officially ending his term early.
The court recognised Yoon’s actions as violating the Constitution and sufficient to remove him from office. The decision was a powerful “political earthquake” in the country, finally marking a reversal of course and opening the way for snap presidential elections to be held within 60 days.
There are mixed emotions on the streets of the capital. Impeachment supporters are cheering, hugging, waving flags and chanting “Yoon is gone!” At the same time, there is open disappointment among his supporters. Some call what is happening a “political massacre,” others call it “restoring justice.”
Unprecedented security measures have been introduced and maintained in the capital. The authorities fear that riots may break out on the part of those who do not agree with the court’s decision. The possibility of a clash between representatives of the opposing political camps – Yoon’s supporters and those who support the opposition – cannot be ruled out.
What sparked the political crisis
The internal political crisis in the Republic of Korea began on the night of December 3-4 2024, when Yoon unexpectedly signed a decree on the introduction of martial law.
The decision shocked the country and drew sharp condemnation from the international community.
Hours later, the parliament lifted martial law, and on December 14 voted to impeach Yoon, suspending him from office pending a decision by the Constitutional Court. In a separate trial, Yoon is also the main defendant in a case of attempted rebellion and seizure of power. If proven guilty, he could face up to capital punishment under current law.
