Amid political chaos and trade war tensions, South Korea’s Constitutional Court reinstates Han Duck-soo as acting president. What’s next for the divided nation?
South Korea’s political landscape has been anything but stable in recent months. On March 24, 2025, the Constitutional Court made a landmark decision, reinstating Prime Minister Han Duck-soo as acting president. This move came after months of political chaos, including the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol and a series of high-profile resignations.
The Impeachment Battle
Han Duck-soo, a politician with more than 30 years of experience, was impeached on December 27, 2024. The opposition in parliament blamed him for not stopping President Yoon’s decision to declare martial law, which caused a lot of controversy. But on March 24, 2025, the Constitutional Court decided 7-1 to cancel his impeachment. They said Han didn’t break any laws or the constitution related to martial law.
Trade War Tensions
Amid the political upheaval, South Korea faces significant economic challenges. The country, one of the world’s top exporters, is bracing for potential U.S. tariffs. Han has pledged to focus on safeguarding national interests in the ongoing trade war with the United States.
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Public Reaction and Future Uncertainty
The reinstatement of Han Duck-soo has been met with mixed reactions. While some see it as a step towards stability, others remain concerned about the ongoing political crisis. The Constitutional Court is expected to rule on President Yoon’s impeachment soon, which could lead to a new presidential election within 60 days if he is removed.
A Divided Nation
South Korea remains sharply divided, with large rallies both supporting and opposing Yoon’s leadership. The political crisis has raised concerns among allies, including the United States, which views Yoon as a key partner in countering China and North Korea.
As the nation navigates these turbulent times, all eyes are on the Constitutional Court and its upcoming decisions, which could shape South Korea’s future for years to come.
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