SEOUL: In a significant turn of events in South Korea's tumultuous political landscape, the Constitutional Court has reinstated Prime Minister Han Duck-soo as acting president on March 24, just months after his impeachment. This latest development has intensified the unfolding saga of political upheaval sparked by President Yoon Suk Yeol's controversial decision to declare martial law.

Following President Yoon’s abrupt impeachment over the martial law declaration in December, Han Duck-soo took charge as acting leader. However, his term in this capacity was short-lived due to clashes with a parliament led by the opposition. Han's impeachment came swiftly on December 27, merely 13 days into his role, accused of not adequately opposing Yoon's martial law and failing to appoint three justices to the Constitutional Court.

After a thorough review, the court voted seven to one to annul his impeachment. The ruling concluded that while some justices deemed the impeachment motion valid, it lacked sufficient grounds, as Han had not breached any laws or the constitution. Notably, two justices found the impeachment invalid from the onset, citing a procedural misstep due to the lack of a two-thirds majority in parliament required to pass the motion.

"I am grateful for the wise decision made by the Constitutional Court," Han stated after his reinstatement, expressing appreciation for the cabinet's hard work during his period of suspension. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to address global challenges and steer South Korea toward continued progress amidst geopolitical shifts.

Han Duck-soo, 75, boasts over 30 years of experience in South Korean politics, having served under five different presidents. He is recognized as a rare figure capable of bridging the partisan divide, making his return to power particularly noteworthy in an environment often characterized by intense political strife.

As the political crisis deepens, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok temporarily assumed the role of acting president while the impeachment cases against Han and Yoon were adjudicated. The parliament’s decision to impeach Han stemmed from allegations surrounding his involvement in the martial law declaration and his resistance to legislative measures aimed at investigating Yoon and First Lady Kim Keon Hee.

Yoon's unexpected martial law declaration on December 3, which lasted only about six hours after lawmakers successfully defied it, has triggered widespread alarm among South Korea's allies, particularly the United States. The U.S. has viewed Yoon as a crucial partner in efforts to combat the growing influence of China and counter the threats posed by North Korea.

As South Korea’s Constitutional Court prepares to rule on President Yoon's impeachment and legal troubles, including accusations of insurrection for declaring martial law, the nation stands on edge. Should Yoon be removed from office, a new presidential election is mandated to take place within 60 days, ushering in the possibility of significant political change in a country grappling with its democratic integrity and stability.

Stay tuned as this gripping political saga continues to develop, revealing the fate of South Korea's leadership and its implications for regional and global dynamics.