At 11:22 AM on April 4, the Constitutional Court ruled unanimously, with all eight justices in agreement, to uphold the impeachment of President Yoon Sukyeol and remove him from office. As a result, President Yoon was immediately stripped of all powers and privileges.
Key Rulings
1. Grounds for Impeachment
Violation of the Constitution and Laws: The court found that President Yoon abused his emergency powers by declaring martial law, which was deemed a severe violation of constitutional order.
Causing Social Chaos: The declaration of martial law led to widespread political, economic, and diplomatic turmoil.
Undermining Democracy and Judicial Independence: The Constitutional Court ruled that President Yoon exceeded his constitutional authority, thereby destabilizing the democratic republic.
2. Procedural Legitimacy
The impeachment process was deemed lawful, and the court clarified that there was no abuse of the right to impeach.
3. Consequences of Removal
President Yoon must immediately vacate the presidential residence.
All privileges, except for security and protective services, will be revoked.
His immunity from criminal prosecution is nullified, paving the way for further legal investigations.
Next Steps
A presidential election will be held within 60 days.
South Korea must now navigate a period of political uncertainty while preparing for a new administration.
