1. The Unprecedented Verdict
On April 4, 2025, South Korea witnessed its second presidential impeachment as all eight Constitutional Court justices found Yoon Suk-yeol guilty of:
- Unconstitutional martial law declaration (December 2024)
- Military mobilization against the National Assembly
- Political interference in judiciary
2. Three Key Violations
2.1 Flawed Martial Law Process
The Martial Law Act requires parliamentary approval within 24 hours. Defense Ministry logs prove troops entered Seoul 48 hours before Congress received notification.
2.2 Judicial Independence Breach
Leaked emails from Seoul High Court (January 2025) revealed pressure to “expedite cases against opposition lawmakers.”
2.3 Legislative Sabotage
Presidential guards blocked lawmakers from entering the Assembly on December 7, 2024, halting critical budget votes.
3. Immediate Consequences
- Markets: KRW fell 2.8% against USD
- US Relations: Acting PM Han Duck-soo assured continued joint drills with Pentagon
- North Korea: State media KCNA called it “proof of capitalist democracy failure”
4. Divided Public Opinion
Gallup Korea survey shows:
- Ages 20-39: 81% support impeachment
- Over 60: Only 39% approval
- Daegu/Gyeongbuk: 56% opposition
5. What’s Next?
- Snap Election: Voting by June 3, 2025
- Criminal Charges: Prosecutors preparing indictment for rebellion
- Military Purge: 12 generals involved in martial law to face disciplinary action
Conclusion
This crisis tested South Korea’s democratic institutions but also exposed systemic risks. The upcoming election will redefine Northeast Asia’s security landscape.
