2025-04-04T06:52:58.000Z

---

In a landmark ruling that marks a significant chapter in South Korea's political landscape, the Constitutional Court has upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, officially removing him from office. This decision, reached unanimously by the eight-member bench on Friday, follows months of intense political turmoil sparked by Yoon's controversial declaration of martial law. His actions not only incited nationwide protests but also led to a fierce political crisis that gripped the nation.

In a brief statement issued after the verdict, President Yoon expressed his sorrow, stating, “I am truly sorry and heartbroken that I was unable to meet your expectations.” This acknowledgment of failure comes in stark contrast to the upheaval his presidency has caused. The court found that Yoon had mobilized military and police forces in an unlawful attempt to suppress legislative authority, a decision that it concluded had “seriously violated the constitution and other laws.” Acting Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae emphasized that the declaration of martial law did not meet the substantive requirements for such emergency measures, asserting that Yoon’s removal was essential to preserve the country’s constitutional order, even amidst the complications that come with a presidential transition.

The ruling ignited a wave of emotional reactions across South Korea. In Seoul, jubilant anti-Yoon demonstrators erupted into cheers, with many expressing their relief through tears and celebrations in the streets. Protesters clad in costumes resembling blue bears, a symbol associated with the opposition, marched through the capital, reveling in the moment of his ousting. On the other side of the political spectrum, thousands of Yoon's supporters gathered outside his official residence, defiantly waving South Korean and US flags. Their grief and anger were palpable as they watched the decision unfold on large screens. “We will absolutely not be shaken!” a protest leader proclaimed, rallying the supporters to reject the court's ruling.

Despite the deep divisions among the populace, it is noteworthy that no significant violence was reported in the immediate aftermath of the ruling. Yoon's removal is expected to pave the way for a new presidential election within the next two months. However, analysts caution that the heightened political tensions stemming from the impeachment could complicate South Korea’s handling of pressing international issues, particularly its relationships with the United States and North Korea.

In a show of support for the court's decision, Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the opposition Democratic Party and a frontrunner for the upcoming election, hailed the ruling as a triumph for democracy. He remarked, “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.”

However, Yoon's legal challenges are far from over. With the loss of his presidential immunity, he now faces a myriad of criminal investigations, including potential charges of abuse of power and rebellion. Notably, in January, he was arrested and indicted due to his martial law decree, a charge that could carry severe penalties, including a life sentence or even the death penalty if he is ultimately convicted. Critics have also suggested that Yoon's military intervention was a desperate attempt to obstruct an independent investigation into various scandals involving his wife, Kim Keon Hee.