By Abiola Olawale
South Korea’s Constitutional Court has unanimously voted to remove President Yoon Suk Yeol from office.
This is as the court upheld his impeachment over a controversial martial law declaration that was said to have plunged the nation into political chaos.
The ruling, delivered live on national television, marks the end of Yoon’s presidency and sets the stage for a snap election within 60 days.
The court’s eight justices found Yoon, 64, guilty of violating the constitution by imposing martial law on December 3, 2024, in what he claimed was an effort to counter “anti-state” forces.
“Given the serious negative impact and far-reaching consequences of the respondent’s constitutional violations… (We) dismiss respondent President Yoon Suk Yeol,” acting court President Moon Hyung-bae said while delivering the ruling.
According to reports, Yoon’s ousting has ignited celebrations among his critics in Seoul, with crowds gathering to hail the decision as a victory for democracy.
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will continue as acting president until a new leader is elected.
