Cliff Notes
- South Korea’s constitutional court upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was dismissed for violating his duties as commander-in-chief by declaring martial law and mobilising troops.
- His declaration triggered the nation’s most severe political crisis in decades, leading to mass protests and a rapid response from the opposition-dominated assembly that ultimately blocked his decree.
- A national election must be held within two months to appoint a new president, with opposition leader Lee Jae-myung emerging as the early frontrunner in polls.
Court confirms sacking of South Korean president who declared martial law
South Korea’s constitutional court has confirmed the dismissal of President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was impeached in December after declaring martial law.
His decision to send troops onto the streets led to the country’s worst political crisis in decades.
The court ruled to uphold the impeachment saying the conservative leader “violated his duty as commander-in-chief by mobilising troops” when he declared martial law.
The president was also said to have taken actions “beyond the powers provided in the constitution”.
Additional sources
South Korea’s ousted leader Yoon loses reckless gamble with martial law – Reuters
Potential arrest, no perks, pension: what comes next for South Korea’s Yoon? – South China Morning Post
Yoon Suk Yeol: The South Korean president who could be permanently impeached – Sky