4 April 2025
- There were tears of joy and sadness amongst pro-Yoon and anti-Yoon supporters, who had taken to the streets ahead of the verdict. Police are on standby in case of any violent protests
- In his first remarks after the verdict, Yoon says he is “truly sorry” for failing to live up to the people’s expectations
- His short-lived declaration of martial law last December plunged the country into political turmoil
- His powers were first suspended when parliament voted to impeach him on 14 December
Yoon said on Friday that he would accept the court’s verdict.
“Dear citizens, it has been a great honour to be able to work for the Republic of Korea. I am deeply grateful to all of you who have supported and cheered for me, despite my many shortcomings,” he said.
The government now has 60 days to hold a presidential election. Acting president Han Duck-soo will remain in his position until then.
Yoon is also expected to face a series of criminal investigations, such as abuse of power. The charge of treason was the only criminal investigation that he was not shielded from while president. His removal from office has opened the possibilities of further legal accountability.
He has also been stripped of all presidential privileges, including support staff such as official aides and a driver, and he is no longer eligible for a pension amounting to 95 percent of a president’s salary.
Yoon is also now required to vacate the presidential residence and he will not be buried at the national cemetery when he passes away.
