South Korea’s Constitutional Court has overturned the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, reinstating him as acting leader while not yet addressing the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Han’s role as acting president began after Yoon was impeached by the National Assembly due to a controversial martial law declaration that sparked a political crisis in December.
Han faced impeachment himself in late December amidst political tensions with opposition lawmakers. The court’s ruling today was significant, with seven of the eight justices deciding that the accusations against Han were not legally substantial enough to justify his removal from office. Only one justice supported the impeachment.
The continued turmoil has disrupted governance and raised concerns about South Korea’s political stability, especially regarding its diplomatic and economic activities. Following Han’s impeachment, the deputy prime minister and finance minister, Choi Sang-mok, has temporarily assumed the acting presidency.
The court has not yet ruled on Yoon’s impeachment. A decision in favour of Yoon would restore him to power, while upholding his impeachment would necessitate a presidential election. Yoon faces serious legal challenges, having been arrested and charged with rebellion in connection with his earlier decree, which could potentially lead to severe penalties, including the death penalty. He was released from detention earlier this month to stand trial.
Mass protests have erupted across South Korea, reflecting a deep societal divide concerning Yoon’s actions and the recent political upheaval. Critics have expressed concern over his decision to utilise military force during his martial law declaration, alleging efforts to obstruct a vote against him in the assembly, which was ultimately successful in rejecting his measures.
Han, a seasoned diplomat who served under Yoon, aimed to reassure international partners and stabilise financial markets during his brief tenure as acting president. However, his refusal to appoint new justices to the Constitutional Court, which is crucial for resolving Yoon’s impeachment, has drawn criticism and played a role in the political skirmishes. With the court requiring a majority for any ruling on Yoon’s case, the implications of Han’s earlier appointments are critical for his administration’s future.
Following the court’s decision regarding Han, the main opposition party and others have moved to impeach Choi Sang-mok, highlighting the ongoing political strife and instability within South Korea’s leadership landscape.