Seoul, South Korea โ South Koreaโs Constitutional Court has overturned the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, reinstating him as the countryโs acting president on Monday. However, the court has yet to rule on the separate impeachment case of President Yoon Suk Yeol, who imposed martial law in December, triggering national and international controversy.
Speaking with reporters after his reinstatement, Han welcomed the courtโs decision, calling it โwiseโ and pledging to focus on pressing issues, including navigating the fast-changing global trade environmentโan apparent reference to the Trump administrationโs aggressive tariff policies. He also urged national unity, stating, โThereโs no left or rightโwhat matters is the advancement of our nation.โ
Political Turmoil in South Korea
South Korea has been mired in political crisis since December 3, when President Yoon, a conservative, declared martial law and deployed hundreds of troops to the liberal-controlled National Assembly and other key locations in Seoul. His decree lasted only six hours before lawmakers managed to reconvene and vote it down. Days later, on December 14, the assembly impeached Yoon, accusing him of violating the constitution, suppressing legislative activities, and attempting to detain politicians.
Yoonโs impeachment made Han acting president, but Han was also impeached in late December, accused of abetting Yoonโs martial law declaration, obstructing judicial processes, and interfering with efforts to restore the Constitutional Courtโs full membership.
Whatโs Next?
The back-to-back impeachments of South Koreaโs top two officials have deepened domestic divisions and raised concerns over the countryโs diplomatic and economic stability. Han, during his time as acting president, sought to reassure international partners and stabilize financial markets. His reinstatement could embolden supporters of Yoon and intensify political conflict ahead of the Constitutional Courtโs much-anticipated ruling on the presidentโs fate.
As the nation waits for the final verdict on Yoon, all eyes remain on South Koreaโs highest courtโand the future of its leadership.
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