South Korea’s Constitutional Court has overturned the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, allowing him to resume his role as acting president. This ruling adds another twist to the political turmoil caused by the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol.
In a 7-1 (a judicial ruling where seven judges voted in favour of one side, while one judge voted against it, resulting in a 7-1 majority decision) decision on Monday, the court dismissed Han’s impeachment. Five justices ruled that there was not enough evidence to justify his removal. Two others argued that the impeachment lacked legitimacy, as only 192 out of 300 lawmakers supported it—short of the required two-thirds majority.
Han became acting president after Yoon’s impeachment in mid-December. However, he was soon suspended for refusing to appoint three new justices to the Constitutional Court. But now with this ruling, he is now back in office.
After the verdict, Prime Minister Han thanked the court and vowed to focus on South Korea’s geopolitical challenges. He called for national unity, stating, “There is no place for division now. Our country’s priority is to move forward.”
Read more: South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol Accused Of Dictatorship
Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court is still reviewing Yoon’s impeachment. A decision is expected soon, determining whether he will remain removed from office or be reinstated. If the court upholds his impeachment, a presidential election must take place within 60 days.
Yoon also faces criminal charges, including insurrection, linked to his brief imposition of martial law on December 3, 2024. If convicted, he could receive a life sentence or even the death penalty.
As South Korea navigates this crisis, the political landscape of the country remains uncertain. The final decision on Yoon’s future will shape the country’s leadership and political stability in the coming months.
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