South Korea’s Constitutional Court overturns impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo

South Korea’s Constitutional Court has overturned the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, reinstating him as the acting leader of the nation. The court’s ruling on Monday ended Han’s brief suspension from office, which followed his impeachment in late December.

The 7-1 decision in Han’s case is seen by many observers as not having much bearing on the upcoming verdict regarding the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. While Han was not directly involved in the controversial martial law declaration imposed by President Yoon in December, the ruling has the potential to strengthen Yoon’s political supporters and escalate tensions between the conservative and opposition factions.

Han, speaking to the press following his reinstatement, expressed gratitude to the court, calling it a “wise decision.” He emphasized his focus on pressing matters, such as the shifting global trade environment, which is often seen as a reference to the Trump administration’s aggressive tariff policies. Han also called for national unity, saying, “There’s no left or right — what matters is the advancement of our nation.”

South Korea has been in a state of political chaos since President Yoon declared martial law on December 3. The controversial decree, which saw hundreds of troops sent to the National Assembly and other key sites in Seoul, was retracted just six hours later after a vote by lawmakers overturned it.

The National Assembly impeached Yoon on December 14, accusing him of violating the constitution by attempting to suppress legislative activities and detain political figures. The impeachment temporarily elevated Han to the role of acting president. However, Han himself was also impeached shortly after, on allegations that he had aided Yoon’s martial law declaration and obstructed the restoration of the Constitutional Court’s full membership.

The political turmoil resulting from the impeachment proceedings has intensified divisions within the country, raising concerns about the nation’s diplomatic relations and economic stability. Han’s temporary leadership during this turbulent period aimed to reassure international partners and stabilize markets, but the ongoing political instability continues to pose challenges.

As the court now prepares to rule on the impeachment of President Yoon, many are watching closely to see whether this decision will further polarize South Korean politics or signal a shift in the balance of power between the country’s conservative leadership and its liberal opposition.