South Korea's Constitutional Court unanimously upheld the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, triggered by his controversial martial law declaration. The martial law, lasting only six hours, created a political crisis that unsettled financial markets and strained diplomatic relationships. The court found Yoon's actions, which involved mobilizing military forces against legislative authority, unconstitutional. Following his removal, fresh presidential elections are mandated within two months. Yoon expressed regret for failing public expectations and defended his martial law order, claiming it aimed to rally support against opposition obstruction. Without immunity, he may face criminal charges for abuse of power.
Yoon's decision to declare martial law - despite South Korea not facing any obvious security threat - thrust the country into political chaos.
The court acted based on Yoon's declaration of martial law around four months ago, which not only acted dubiously but also violated the constitution.
Yoon said in a statement issued via his defence team that he felt great regret for failing to live up to public expectations.
Surveys indicate that the leader of the main liberal opposition Democratic Party stands to benefit significantly from Yoon's removal.
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