South Korea is currently facing its most significant political crisis in decades, with the Constitutional Court set to begin deliberations on the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol on Tuesday. This decision follows Yoon's suspension from office on December 14, after the National Assembly voted to impeach him due to his brief declaration of martial law.
The court, consisting of eight justices, will determine whether to uphold or overturn the impeachment. The situation has led to heightened tensions, with citizens rallying in support of either Yoon's removal or reinstatement, and warnings of potential civil unrest from hard-liners on both sides.
If the court decides to remove Yoon, it would mark the third consecutive ousting of a conservative president in South Korea. Conversely, if he is reinstated, concerns arise regarding the precedent it may set for future leaders to use martial law as a political maneuver.
Yoon has stated his intention to defend himself in court but will not attend the initial hearing due to fears of arrest related to ongoing criminal investigations into insurrection charges. His absence may lead to a shortened hearing, although the court can continue its deliberations in subsequent sessions.
The martial law declared by Yoon lasted only six hours after being rejected by lawmakers, yet it has contributed to ongoing political instability in a key U.S. ally. The Constitutional Court's ruling is anticipated to either alleviate some of this uncertainty or exacerbate public discontent.
The court has become increasingly significant in South Korea's political landscape, handling numerous impeachment cases and serving as the ultimate interpreter of the Constitution since its establishment in 1987. The current court includes justices appointed by both Yoon and his predecessors, adding complexity to the potential ruling.
Legal experts suggest that the court's decision will hinge on the severity of Yoon's alleged constitutional violations, including accusations of insurrection and the imposition of military control over political activities and media. Prosecutors have already taken action against former defense officials linked to Yoon's martial law declaration.
Analysts predict that the court may move to unseat Yoon as early as February, citing sufficient evidence against him and the need to restore political stability in the country.