South Korean Court to Decide Political Future of Impeached President Amid Martial Law Chaos

South Korea’s Constitutional Court is poised to deliver a significant ruling on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment this Friday, following a tumultuous period that began with his brief declaration of martial law on December 3. This decision will be closely watched, as it could either restore Yoon’s presidential powers or lead to national elections within two months if he is removed.

The court’s session begins at 11 a.m. local time, requiring at least six of its eight justices to vote in favor of impeachment for it to be upheld. Yoon’s martial law was lifted within six hours due to swift legislative action, yet it triggered a constitutional crisis, leading to his impeachment by the National Assembly. Alongside this political turmoil, Yoon faces a separate criminal trial for alleged rebellion, raising questions about governance in South Korea.

Thousands of demonstrators have mobilized in recent days, either denouncing or supporting the president, intensifying the divide between conservative and liberal factions. Police have fortified the area around the court, anticipating potential unrest, while both sides rally passionately on the streets.

Public sentiment remains deeply polarized. Supporters argue that the impeachment is a political maneuver, while opponents assert that Yoon’s actions represent a blatant overreach of authority. As Prime Minister Han Duck-soo calls for unity, one protester succinctly warned: “If Yoon’s impeachment is overturned, our country will plunge into the abyss.” The verdict will inevitably shape South Korea’s political landscape moving forward, regardless of the outcome.