Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has publicly apologized following the Constitutional Court’s unanimous decision to uphold his impeachment, officially removing him from office.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Yoon expressed remorse for the turmoil his presidency had caused, stating, “I deeply regret that my leadership has led to division and instability.
“I take full responsibility and apologize to the people of South Korea.” His brief statement came amid heightened security in Seoul, as both supporters and opponents of his administration reacted to the court’s ruling.
Yoon, who was impeached by the National Assembly in December 2024, faced removal following allegations of constitutional violations.
His declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, in response to nationwide protests, was deemed an abuse of power by lawmakers and legal experts.
The Constitutional Court ruled on Thursday that Yoon’s actions represented a “grave threat to democratic governance” and justified his dismissal.
With Yoon officially ousted, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has resumed his role as acting president and a new presidential election is mandated to take place within 60 days.
The impeachment verdict has intensified political divisions in the country, with opposition parties calling for legal action against Yoon, while his supporters decry the ruling as politically motivated.
Meanwhile, Yoon is now facing a separate criminal trial on charges of insurrection, which carries potential life imprisonment or the death penalty under South Korean law.
Prosecutors are expected to accelerate their investigation following the impeachment ruling.
Public reaction to the court’s decision remains mixed. Thousands of anti-Yoon demonstrators gathered in central Seoul on Thursday night to celebrate his removal, calling for broader political reforms.
Conversely, pro-Yoon groups have staged counter-protests, with some calling for the former president’s reinstatement.
The South Korean government is now focused on ensuring a smooth transition of power and maintaining stability amid economic concerns and upcoming trade negotiations with the United States.
As the nation prepares for new leadership, political analysts say Yoon’s impeachment marks a historic moment in South Korea’s democratic evolution, reinforcing the principle of checks and balances in the country’s governance.