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South Korea’s highest court ruled unanimously on Friday to oust impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol due to his contentious martial law declaration, prompting new elections following months of political chaos.
Yoon, 64, faced suspension by lawmakers after his December 3 attempt to undermine civilian governance, which included the deployment of armed troops to the National Assembly. He was also arrested on insurrection charges related to a different criminal matter.
“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.
Millions of South Koreans tuned in to watch the Constitutional Court’s verdict being broadcast live, and the country’s primary messaging app, KakaoTalk, reported that some users experienced delays due to a sudden influx of traffic.
Yoon’s dismissal takes effect immediately, initiating the process for new presidential elections that must occur within 60 days. Authorities will reveal the election date in the coming days.
Onlookers outside the courthouse reported hearing Yoon’s supporters make threats against the judges, prompting police to provide enhanced security for the justices.
The court ruled that Yoon’s actions “breach the fundamental principles of the rule of law and democratic governance,” adding that Yoon’s deployment of armed soldiers to parliament to prevent lawmakers from rejecting his decree “compromised the political neutrality of the military.”
Opposition lawmakers applauded the ruling as it was announced, deeming it “historic,” while members of Yoon’s party exited the courtroom.
In a brief statement released following the decision, Yoon regretted not meeting the people’s “expectations.”
He is the second South Korean president to be impeached by the court, following Park Geun-hye in 2017.
After weeks of intense hearings, the judges deliberated the case for over a month amid escalating public discontent.
On Friday, police escalated security measures to the highest level, surrounding the courthouse with a ring of vehicles and stationing special operations teams nearby.
Yoon, who defended his attempt to undermine civilian authority as essential for eliminating “anti-state forces,” still retains the support of a radical base.
Outside his home, his supporters expressed their anger and frustration, with some breaking down in tears upon hearing the verdict.
