South Korea’s Constitutional Court has reinstated Prime Minister Han Duck-soo as the acting president, overturning his impeachment by opposition lawmakers. The court ruled 7-1 to nullify the impeachment, allowing Han to reclaim the position he initially assumed after President Yoon Suk Yeol was suspended in December 2024 for declaring martial law.
The political crisis began in December 2024 when President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in response to escalating protests and civil unrest. The move was widely criticized as an overreach of power, leading to his impeachment by the National Assembly and subsequent suspension. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo stepped in as acting president but was impeached less than two weeks into his tenure for refusing to appoint new Constitutional Court judges, a decision opposition lawmakers deemed a breach of his duties.
The Constitutional Court’s ruling reinstating Han as acting president marks a significant development in South Korea’s ongoing political turmoil. In its decision, the court emphasized the need for stability and continuity in governance during this critical period. Han expressed gratitude for the ruling, stating, “I will dedicate myself to addressing the pressing issues facing our nation, including the U.S. trade war and the deep political polarization that divides us.”
The court’s decision comes as it continues to deliberate on President Yoon’s impeachment case. If the court upholds Yoon’s impeachment, he will be permanently removed from office, triggering a new presidential election. However, if the court overturns the impeachment, Yoon could be reinstated as president, potentially reigniting tensions with opposition parties and the public.
The reinstatement of Prime Minister Han has elicited mixed reactions across the country. Supporters of the ruling party welcomed the decision as a step toward restoring stability, while opposition leaders criticized it as a setback for accountability and democratic norms.
Meanwhile, protests continue to grip Seoul, with thousands of citizens taking to the streets to voice their frustrations over the political crisis. Demonstrators are divided, with some calling for Yoon’s permanent removal and others demanding his reinstatement. The deep polarization reflects the broader challenges facing South Korea as it navigates this unprecedented period of political uncertainty.
As Prime Minister Han resumes his role as acting president, all eyes are now on the Constitutional Court’s pending decision regarding President Yoon’s impeachment. The outcome will have far-reaching implications for South Korea’s political landscape and its ability to address pressing domestic and international challenges.
For now, the nation remains at a crossroads, grappling with questions of leadership, governance, and the future of its democracy.