Ousted South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has publicly apologized after the country’s Constitutional Court upheld his impeachment, officially removing him from office.
In a statement on Friday, Yoon acknowledged the challenges caused by his administration and took responsibility for the instability during his tenure.
“I sincerely regret the division and turmoil my leadership has caused. I take full responsibility and apologize to the people of South Korea,” he said.
His address came amid heightened security in Seoul, where both critics and supporters responded strongly to the court’s decision.
Yoon was impeached by the National Assembly in December 2024 over allegations of constitutional violations.
The controversy stemmed from his declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, in response to widespread protests.
Lawmakers and legal experts condemned the move as an abuse of power, leading to the court’s ruling that his actions posed a significant threat to democratic governance and warranted his dismissal.
Following his removal, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has resumed the role of acting president, with a new presidential election mandated within 60 days.
The ruling has sparked heated debate, with opposition figures demanding further legal consequences for Yoon, while his supporters argue that the decision was politically motivated.
Beyond impeachment, Yoon is also facing a separate legal battle, with prosecutors charging him with insurrection—an offence that carries the possibility of life imprisonment or the death penalty.
Authorities are expected to expedite their investigations in light of the court’s verdict.
Public response has been polarized. Thousands of citizens gathered in Seoul on Thursday to celebrate Yoon’s removal, calling for deeper political reforms.
Meanwhile, his loyalists staged counter-protests, expressing outrage and demanding his reinstatement.
As the nation braces for leadership changes, the government is working to maintain stability, particularly in the face of economic concerns and upcoming trade discussions with the United States.
Experts believe Yoon’s impeachment marks a significant moment in South Korea’s democratic development, reinforcing institutional checks and balances and demonstrating the resilience of the nation’s political system.