World News
SOUTH KOREA PRESIDENT HAS BEEN REMOVE FROM POWER
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Eghosa Osagiede
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Apr 4, 2025
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12 Views
South Korea's president has been removed from power: What happens now?
Responses may take a month
On April 4, 2025, South Korea Court unanimously upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, effectively removing him from office. This decision follows Yoon's controversial declaration of martial law in December 2024, which was widely criticized and quickly rescinded.
Immediate Political Implications
With President Yoon's removal, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has resumed his role as acting president. Han had previously served in this capacity following Yoon's suspension in December 2024 but was himself impeached later that month. However, the Constitutional Court overturned Han's impeachment on March 24, 2025, reinstating him as both prime minister and acting president.
Upcoming Presidential Election
According to South Korea's Constitution, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days of a president's removal from office. The leading candidate in the polls is Lee Jae-myung of the opposition Democratic Party, who has pledged to restore democracy and stability. However, Lee faces legal challenges that could impact his candidacy
Legal Proceedings Against Yoon Suk Yeol
Following his impeachment, Yoon Suk Yeol faces criminal charges of insurrection, with a trial scheduled to begin on April 14, 2025. If convicted, he could face severe penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Responses may take a month
On April 4, 2025, South Korea Court unanimously upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, effectively removing him from office. This decision follows Yoon's controversial declaration of martial law in December 2024, which was widely criticized and quickly rescinded.
Immediate Political Implications
With President Yoon's removal, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has resumed his role as acting president. Han had previously served in this capacity following Yoon's suspension in December 2024 but was himself impeached later that month. However, the Constitutional Court overturned Han's impeachment on March 24, 2025, reinstating him as both prime minister and acting president.
Upcoming Presidential Election
According to South Korea's Constitution, a new presidential election must be held within 60 days of a president's removal from office. The leading candidate in the polls is Lee Jae-myung of the opposition Democratic Party, who has pledged to restore democracy and stability. However, Lee faces legal challenges that could impact his candidacy
Legal Proceedings Against Yoon Suk Yeol
Following his impeachment, Yoon Suk Yeol faces criminal charges of insurrection, with a trial scheduled to begin on April 14, 2025. If convicted, he could face severe penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty.