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South Koreans likely to head to the polls on June 3 after President Yoon Suk Yeol's removal from office
South Koreans likely to head to the polls on June 3 after President Yoon Suk Yeol's removal from office
By: Nii Ammui Fio | 2 mins read
South Korea is staring at a period of deep uncertainty after its Constitutional Court unanimously upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, formally removing him from office and triggering a snap election that must be held by June 3.
Yoon was suspended by parliament in December following his failed attempt to impose martial law—an unprecedented move that shocked the nation. On Friday, all eight judges of the court ruled against him, bringing his presidency to an abrupt and dramatic end.
The ruling has evoked strong emotions across the country. Supporters and critics gathered in different parts of Seoul to watch the decision live—some celebrating, others grieving.
Delivering the verdict, acting chief judge Moon Hyung-bae said Yoon’s attempted military takeover “was not justified” and that he had “[gone] against the people he was supposed to protect.” He added that the decision to enforce martial law “damaged people’s basic political rights” and “violated the principles of the rule of law and democracy.”
The ruling not only confirms Yoon’s removal but also sets South Korea on a new path—one riddled with political division, distrust, and lingering questions about the strength of its democratic institutions.
Although his actions were condemned by many in the early days of the crisis, Yoon’s refusal to apologise or accept responsibility fueled a wave of far-right support. Throughout his trial, he repeated unproven claims that North Korean and Chinese spies had infiltrated the government and rigged elections. These conspiracy theories, once dismissed, have now found traction among a significant portion of the population.
Yoon has become a political martyr to his base—portraying himself as a victim of a corrupt establishment overtaken by “communists.” Thousands of his supporters continue to protest weekly in central Seoul, with growing numbers echoing his claims of rigged elections and a compromised judiciary.
This deepening mistrust poses a serious threat to South Korea’s democratic future. Polls now show that more than one-third of the population lacks confidence in the Constitutional Court, and over a quarter question the integrity of the electoral system.
With just 60 days to elect a new president, the country’s political landscape remains volatile. Whoever wins may struggle to unify the nation—or even secure legitimacy in the eyes of disillusioned citizens.
On the international front, challenges are already mounting. U.S. President Donald Trump’s return to office has seen steep tariffs imposed on Korean goods, and many expect further economic and security demands. Observers fear Trump could pressure Seoul to increase its defence spending or even negotiate with North Korea under terms unfavourable to the South.
As the country prepares for elections, one thing is clear: South Korea urgently needs a new leader who can heal deep divisions, restore faith in its institutions, and navigate an increasingly turbulent global stage.
