Seoul: South Korea’s Constitutional Court has officially upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, marking a dramatic end to his controversial presidency. The historic ruling, delivered on Friday, comes after months of intense political turmoil following Yoon’s declaration of martial law, which led to mass protests and a constitutional crisis.
Yoon’s Statement: ‘I Am Truly Sorry’
In a brief statement following the verdict, Yoon expressed regret over his removal. “I am truly sorry and heartbroken that I was unable to meet your expectations”, he said, acknowledging the deep divide his actions had caused within the country.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was ousted by the Constitutional Court, which upheld parliament's impeachment motion over his short-lived imposition of martial law last year that sparked the country's worst political crisis in decades https://t.co/wwniGsmyhi pic.twitter.com/pA3TMUTFfn
— Reuters (@Reuters) April 4, 2025
Court Rules Yoon’s Martial Law Decree Was Unconstitutional
The eight-member Constitutional Court bench unanimously upheld the impeachment, citing Yoon’s martial law decree as a serious violation of the country’s constitution. The ruling stated that the former president’s attempt to deploy military and police forces to suppress legislative authority was unconstitutional and unlawful.
Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae emphasized the severity of the case, saying, “Ultimately, the declaration of martial law in this case violated the substantive requirements for emergency martial law.” The court determined that removing Yoon from office was essential to preserving South Korea’s democratic and constitutional order, despite the challenges associated with a sudden presidential transition.
Mixed Reactions Across South Korea
The court’s decision triggered a wave of emotions nationwide. In Seoul, thousands of anti-Yoon demonstrators erupted in celebrations, with some breaking into tears and dancing in the streets. Many dressed as blue bears—symbols of the opposition—while marching in victory parades.
On the other hand, Yoon’s loyal supporters gathered outside the presidential residence, waving South Korean and U.S. flags in protest. Some supporters were seen crying as the verdict was announced on large screens, while a protest leader defiantly declared, “We will absolutely not be shaken”! Despite the passionate reactions, there were no immediate reports of major violence.
South Korea Prepares for Snap Elections
With Yoon’s removal, the nation must now prepare for a fresh presidential election within the next two months. However, political analysts warn that deep divisions over the impeachment could complicate South Korea’s foreign relations, particularly with key allies like the United States and ongoing tensions with North Korea.
Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, a strong contender for the presidency, welcomed the ruling as a victory for democracy. “The courage of the people who stood in the face of guns, swords, and tanks, along with the bravery of troops who refused to obey unjust orders, has led to this great revolution of light”, Lee stated.
Yoon Faces Criminal Charges After Losing Immunity
Yoon’s impeachment is only the beginning of his legal troubles. With his presidential immunity revoked, he now faces multiple criminal investigations, including potential charges of abuse of power and rebellion. In January, he was arrested and indicted for his martial law decree, a charge that could carry a life sentence—or even the death penalty—if convicted.
Some critics allege that Yoon’s military intervention was an attempt to block an independent probe into corruption scandals involving his wife, Kim Keon-hee, adding another layer of controversy to his downfall.
As South Korea braces for an uncertain political future, all eyes are now on the upcoming elections and the country’s next leader.
