Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was impeached on December 27 after serving just two weeks as South Korea’s acting president. He took over this role when President Yoon Suk Yeol was himself impeached over his short-lived declaration of martial law in December 2023. Han was removed after clashing with the opposition-led parliament by refusing to appoint three more justices to the constitutional court.
Constitutional Court’s Decision
South Korea’s Constitutional Court ruled seven to one on Monday to strike down Han’s impeachment. Five justices stated that while the impeachment motion was valid, there weren’t sufficient grounds for removal as Han didn’t violate the constitution regarding the martial law declaration. Two justices ruled the impeachment motion was invalid from the start, as it didn’t secure the required two-thirds parliamentary majority. Only one justice voted to uphold the impeachment.
Political Reactions and Implications
Han, who immediately resumed his position as acting president, thanked the court for its “wise decision” and called for unity: “I believe that all citizens are clearly speaking out against the highly polarised political sphere. I think there is no place for division now.” South Korea’s presidential office welcomed the ruling, describing the impeachment as a “reckless and malicious political offensive” by the national assembly.
Regional Impact and International Attention
The political turmoil sent shockwaves through Asia’s fourth-largest economy and raised concerns among allies, particularly the United States, who viewed Yoon as a key partner in countering China and North Korea. The situation remains tense as South Korea awaits the Constitutional Court’s upcoming decision on President Yoon’s impeachment. If upheld, Yoon would be removed and a presidential election would follow within 60 days; if dismissed, he would immediately return to office.