South Korean court reinstates impeached prime minister as acting president

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South Korea’s Constitutional Court has overturned the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, reinstating him as the acting president of the country.

This decision marks a new chapter in the ongoing political saga sparked by the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol.

In a 7-1 ruling on Monday, the court dismissed Han’s impeachment, allowing him to resume his duties as acting president.

The ruling follows a protracted legal battle that began after Yoon’s suspension due to his brief imposition of martial law on December 3, 2024.

The court’s decision was split, with five justices agreeing that there were insufficient grounds for Han’s impeachment.

However, two of the eight judges found that the impeachment motion had lacked legitimacy, as it was only supported by 192 of the 300 lawmakers, falling short of the required two-thirds majority.

Han had been appointed acting president after Yoon’s impeachment in mid-December. However, Han himself was suspended from his duties shortly afterward due to his refusal to appoint three new justices to the Constitutional Court.

Following the ruling, Han expressed his gratitude to the court and pledged to focus on navigating the geopolitical challenges facing South Korea.

He stressed the importance of unity, saying, "There is no place for division now. Our country’s priority is to move forward."

The Constitutional Court is still deliberating Yoon's fate, and a decision on whether to confirm his impeachment or restore his presidency is expected soon.

If Yoon’s impeachment is upheld, a presidential election must be held within 60 days.

In addition to his political troubles, Yoon faces criminal charges, including insurrection, related to his martial law decree.

If convicted, he could face a life sentence or the death penalty.