South Korea’s Constitutional Court reinstated Prime Minister Han Duck-soo as acting president on Monday, overturning his impeachment. The decision follows a period of intense political instability that began when President Yoon Suk Yeol faced suspension after attempting to impose martial law. Han briefly stepped in as interim leader in December 2024 but was impeached two weeks later for allegedly undermining judicial independence. The court’s decision now leaves Han in charge, as the country awaits a final ruling on President Yoon’s impeachment.
Political Crisis Deepens with Leadership Disputes
The ongoing political unrest in South Korea began when President Yoon tried to declare martial law amid rising tensions and unrest in the country. This move led to his impeachment by parliament and the suspension of his duties. As the interim leader, Han Duck-soo was given the responsibility to steer the country through this crisis. However, his decision to block the appointment of new constitutional court judges sparked a fresh wave of political conflict.
Opposition Accuses Han of Interfering with the Judiciary
Opposition lawmakers accused Han of politicizing the judicial process. Han’s move to halt judicial appointments was seen as a strategy to delay a potential ruling on President Yoon’s impeachment. Many in the opposition feared that new judges could sway the outcome of the impeachment trial in favor of Yoon. In response, lawmakers initiated impeachment proceedings against Han, citing his actions as an infringement on judicial independence. This escalation led to Han’s suspension from office and the appointment of Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok to temporarily lead the country.
Court Overturns Impeachment, Han Promises Stability
On Monday, the Constitutional Court ruled in favor of Han, rejecting the impeachment by a 7-1 vote. The court found the impeachment to be legally insufficient, paving the way for Han’s immediate reinstatement. After the ruling, Han expressed his gratitude to the court and vowed to restore order in the government. “I thank the Constitutional Court for its wise decision,” Han said in a public statement. “I will work to bring the government to order,” he added, signaling his commitment to stabilizing the country’s political environment.
Focus Shifts to Yoon’s Impeachment Outcome
With Han reinstated as interim leader, the political spotlight now turns to the fate of President Yoon. Parliament removed Yoon from office on December 14, but the decision is still pending judicial approval. If the court rejects Yoon’s impeachment, he will immediately resume his presidential duties. The uncertainty surrounding Yoon’s future has fueled widespread protests in Seoul, with large crowds both supporting and opposing his return. The court has not yet set a date for delivering its final verdict on Yoon’s impeachment, leaving the nation in suspense.
Nation Awaits Clarity as Protests Intensify
As South Korea navigates through this political turmoil, public protests have become a regular occurrence in the capital. Supporters of President Yoon demand his reinstatement, while opponents of his leadership continue to push for his permanent removal. The conflicting views reflect the deep divide within the country over the political crisis. Han’s return to office may offer some short-term stability, but the final decision on Yoon’s impeachment will likely determine the future trajectory of South Korea’s political landscape.
South Korea’s political future hinges on the outcome of President Yoon’s impeachment trial. As Han Duck-soo steps in once again as acting president, the country remains in a state of political limbo, with the constitutional court playing a pivotal role in resolving the leadership crisis. The court’s upcoming decision on Yoon’s impeachment will likely bring either resolution or further unrest. For now, the nation watches closely as both leaders’ fates are decided.
