🏛️ Constitutional Court Rules to Remove President Yoon from Office
On April 4, 2025, at 11:22 AM, the Constitutional Court of South Korea unanimously upheld the impeachment motion against President Yoon Seok-yeol, resulting in his immediate removal from office.
The court ruled that the President violated the Constitution on multiple fronts, marking only the second presidential removal in the country’s history after former President Park Geun-hye in 2017.
⚖️ 5 Key Grounds for Impeachment
| Grounds for Impeachment | Summary |
|---|---|
| Martial Law Declaration | Unauthorized planning for military control without constitutional grounds |
| Decree No.1 Enforcement | Attempted control over the judiciary, legislature, and press |
| Obstruction of Parliament | Directed plans to suppress parliamentary activities |
| Illegal Seizure of Election Commission | Attempted search without a proper warrant |
| Order for Arbitrary Arrests | Instructed arrests of politicians and public figures |
The court emphasized that these actions violated constitutional principles and betrayed the public’s trust, justifying removal from office.
🗣️ Reactions from Political Circles
- Ruling party accepted the verdict, stating it reflects a “necessary constitutional check.”
- Opposition parties hailed it as a “victory for democracy and the people.”
➡️ For more insights, check out K-Issue category.
🌍 International Response
- Global media (BBC, CNN, NYT) immediately reported the decision.
- Analysts praised South Korea’s democratic maturity and institutional strength.
- Official comments from the U.S. State Department and EU supported “due democratic process.”
📹 Watch the ruling on YouTube: Constitutional Court’s Verdict Video
📅 What Happens Next?
| Timeline | Description |
|---|---|
| April 4 | Verdict announced and power transferred |
| April 5 | Prime Minister takes over as acting President |
| Mid-April | Official announcement of snap presidential election |
| Mid-June | Presidential election expected |
📊 Public Opinion & Social Reactions
- Trending hashtags: #YoonImpeachment #헌재결정
- Public sentiment: “Democracy stands strong”
- Poll: 67% agree with the court’s decision
🧭 Implications for South Korean Politics
- Reinforced constitutional accountability for top leaders
- Demonstration of robust democratic institutions
- Likely political realignment ahead of the next election
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. When does the impeachment decision take effect?
A1. It became effective immediately upon the reading of the verdict.
Q2. Could the former president face criminal prosecution?
A2. The ruling doesn’t cover criminal liability, but relevant charges may be filed separately.
Q3. When is the next presidential election?
A3. The snap election must be held within 60 days—likely by June 2025.
Q4. How many presidents have been impeached in South Korea?
A4. Two—Park Geun-hye (2017) and Yoon Seok-yeol (2025).
Q5. What is the global impact of this decision?
A5. It reinforces South Korea’s image as a mature democratic nation.
Q6. How will this affect the K-political landscape?
A6. Expect new leadership, younger candidates, and institutional reform.
