President Yoon Ousted: What Happens Now?

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On April 4, South Korea's Constitutional Court ruled to dismiss President Yoon Suk-yeol (64) from office. He had been impeached by the National Assembly over his declaration of a state of emergency martial law on December 3, 2024. That declaration involved deploying troops to the National Assembly and other institutions. Following this, Yoon was immediately removed from office.

Under South Korean law, a new presidential election will be held within 60 days.

A Divided Nation

Yoon had worked to improve relations with Japan and the United States. His early departure, with about two years left in his term, is likely to affect Japan–South Korea ties.

He is the latest in a long list of South Korean presidents to be removed from office. In recent memory, President Park Geun-hye was removed in 2017 over a scandal involving a friend's interference in government affairs.

Yoon's martial law declaration deepened divisions in public opinion. Progressive groups called for Yoon's impeachment, while conservatives supported him. The confrontation between the two sides intensified. There are concerns that the upcoming election may worsen the divide. Moreover, it is unclear whether political and social unrest will subside.

*Protesters gather before Seoul Central District Court calling for the revocation of Yoon's arrest warrant in January (©Kenji Yoshida)*

Additionally, Yoon faces charges of leading an insurrection related to the martial law declaration. His first court hearing on those charges is scheduled for April 14.

Watch for updates and follow JAPAN Forward for news and analysis related to the South Korean presidency.

Author: Norio Sakurai, The Sankei Shimbun

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