A South Korean court has dismissed the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, reinstating him as acting president amidst a backdrop of martial law and political turmoil.
A 7-1 vote by the Constitutional Court’s eight justices has struck down the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, reinstating him as acting president.
Mr Han was impeached by lawmakers in December, just weeks after he took over as acting leader from President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was himself impeached over his short-lived declaration of martial law.
Han Duck-soo is a renowned South Korean politician who has played a significant role in shaping the country's foreign policy.
Born on July 7, 1949, Han Duck-soo served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade from 2008 to 2013.
He was instrumental in strengthening Korea's diplomatic ties with various nations, including China and the United States.
Han's tenure saw the signing of several key agreements, including the Free Trade Agreement between Korea and the US.
Background and Impeachment
Mr Han’s impeachment was dismissed due to allegations that he did not do enough to thwart President Yoon’s decision to declare martial law.
The opposition-led parliament accused Mr Han of failing to take action against the president’s move, which drew concerns from allies such as the ‘United States’.
However, Mr Han denied any role in the martial law episode and called for the court to dismiss the impeachment.
Mr Han’s Career and Leadership
Despite his impeachment, Mr Han remains a prominent figure in South Korean politics, having served in leadership positions for over three decades under five presidents.
His varied career has transcended party lines, making him a rare example of an official whose work has been seen as beyond partisan rhetoric.
Martial Law in South Korea
The imposition of martial law by President Yoon was a significant event that sent shockwaves through Asia’s fourth-largest economy.
The declaration was met with defiance from lawmakers, who eventually voted to reject it after defying security cordons.
The martial law lasted for only about six hours before being lifted.
Constitutional Court Ruling
The ‘Constitutional Court’s decision’ to dismiss Mr Han’s impeachment has reinstated him as acting president.
This ruling marks a significant development in the ongoing political crisis in South Korea, where the separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches is under scrutiny.
