International-News

South Korea, President Yoon’s ousting confirmed: early elections within 60 days

Constitutional Court: “Violate the Constitution and laws by mobilising army and police”. Yoon apologises to the country

The South Korean Constitutional Court has unanimously confirmed the ousting of President Yoon Suk Yeol, which was approved last December by the National Assembly. The decision, announced live on television by Court Chief Justice Moon Hyung-bae, makes his exit permanent and paves the way for early presidential elections to be called within 60 days.

The ruling established that Yoon had ‘violated the fundamental principles of the rule of law and democratic governance’ by declaring martial law and mobilising armed and police forces to obstruct the legislature.

‘He was not content with declaring martial law but carried out acts that violated the Constitution and the law,’ Moon stressed.

Yoon, who had been suspended after the impeachment motion, released a statement through his lawyers: ‘I regret that I did not live up to the expectations of the citizens. It was an honour to serve the country’.

After the verdict, a planned rally in Seoul by his supporters was cancelled. The BBC reported tension, anger and despair among the crowd that had gathered near his residence.

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