South Korea’s Constitutional Court Reinstates Han Duck-soo as Acting President:

South Korea's Constitutional Court on Monday struck down the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, allowing him to resume his role as acting president nearly three months after being suspended. The decision marks the latest chapter in a period of intense political turbulence for the country.

Impeachment Overturned by Constitutional Court

The court ruled 7-1 to nullify the impeachment motion passed by parliament in December. While five justices acknowledged the motion had merit, they found no constitutional or legal violation warranting removal. Two justices stated the motion was invalid from the outset, citing a failure to secure the required two-thirds majority in parliament.

Han was removed from his acting presidency on December 27 after a clash with the opposition-led legislature over the appointment of Constitutional Court justices. His refusal to back special counsel bills and his alleged inaction during President Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration were also cited in the impeachment.

Han’s Response and Return to Leadership

In televised remarks after the court's decision, Han expressed gratitude for the ruling and commended the cabinet for maintaining governance during his suspension. "We will work together to respond to global changes and continue South Korea's progress," he said.

Han, 75, has held high-ranking roles under five different administrations, making him one of South Korea’s most experienced and bipartisan figures in modern governance.

Context: Yoon’s Martial Law Declaration and Political Fallout

President Yoon’s surprise declaration of martial law on December 3 led to a major political crisis, with widespread backlash at home and concern abroad. Though the martial law was revoked just six hours later following parliamentary defiance, the incident led to Yoon’s impeachment and criminal charges of insurrection.

Han was accused of failing to stop the declaration and refusing key judicial appointments, though he denied these charges during a February 19 court hearing.

Next Steps: Verdict Awaited on President Yoon’s Impeachment

While Han resumes his role as acting president, the Constitutional Court is expected to issue a ruling on President Yoon's impeachment in the coming days. Yoon also faces a criminal trial for alleged insurrection tied to the martial law order.

If the court upholds Yoon's impeachment, South Korea must hold a new presidential election within 60 days.