South Korea’s usually quiet streets outside its constitutional court in Seoul have become a hotbed of tension as the country waits for a landmark decision that could shape its future. The court will deliver a verdict on Friday whether to uphold President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment or return him to office.
Months after Yoon imposed martial law, triggering South Korea’s worst political crisis in decades, the court is set to decide the fate of the president who deployed troops to the national assembly in December, claiming he needed to counter “anti-state forces” and investigate alleged election fraud. The decision will determine whether Yoon survives his impeachment or joins a growing list of disgraced South Korean leaders.
Over 14,000 police officers have been mobilized in Seoul for the security operation, with a 100-metre radius “vacuum state” imposed outside the court building to prevent demonstrations. Ancient palaces in the neighbourhood will close, and authorities plan to restrict rooftop access to high-rise buildings to prevent people from jumping or throwing objects.
The court’s verdict is crucial as it could trigger a presidential election within 60 days if at least six of its eight justices approve the impeachment motion passed by MPs. The country has been marked by huge protests, standoffs between Yoon’s security detail and government authorities, and violent clashes in recent weeks.
As the nation awaits the court’s decision, officials are making every effort to prevent further unrest. The acting police chief stated that plans were being made considering worst-case scenarios, while some protesters believe the impeachment trial is unlawful and will not be ignored.
The country’s political crisis has been exacerbated by Yoon’s allies using inflammatory rhetoric, warning of resistance if the constitutional court upholds his impeachment. The situation remains tense as South Koreans wait for the verdict that could determine their president’s fate and shape the country’s future.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/apr/03/south-korea-president-yoon-impeachment-ruling