SEOUL, South Korea — The Constitutional Court of South Korea has officially started reviewing the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol after allegations of his attempt to impose martial law on December 3. The court’s decision could determine whether Yoon is removed from office or reinstated as the country’s leader.
Why Was President Yoon Impeached?
The impeachment was passed by South Korea’s parliament on Saturday, which is led by the opposition party. Yoon and several high-ranking officials are being accused of insurrection because of their brief attempt to declare martial law—a situation where the military takes control of the government during an emergency.
The Court’s Role
- The Constitutional Court has started its review on Monday.
- All six current justices of the court are attending the first session.
- The court has up to six months to make a final decision:
- Remove President Yoon from office permanently.
- Reinstate him as President if the allegations are dismissed.
Yoon Faces Investigations
President Yoon is also under investigation by a joint team of authorities, including:
- Police
- Defense Ministry
- Anti-Corruption Agency
Investigators plan to question President Yoon on Wednesday about the martial law attempt, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap.
Yoon Misses Previous Summons
On Sunday, Yoon did not attend a separate investigation being conducted by the prosecutors’ office, despite being summoned for questioning. It remains unclear whether Yoon will cooperate fully with ongoing investigations.
What Happens Next?
- The court review will continue for weeks or months as evidence is analyzed.
- Investigators will question Yoon and other officials involved in the alleged plan.
- South Koreans, along with the rest of the world, are closely watching what could be one of the country’s most significant political cases in recent history.
This impeachment marks a critical moment for South Korea’s democracy, and it highlights the importance of holding leaders accountable when serious allegations arise.
