South Korea's Constitutional Court has reinstated Prime Minister Han Duck-soo as acting president, overturning the impeachment that had suspended him for over three months. This ruling, made on March 24, represents a significant chapter in the nation's ongoing political crisis set off by the controversial impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, who had faced backlash for a brief declaration of martial law on December 3, 2022. BBC. Han, who previously assumed the position of acting president after Yoon's own impeachment on December 14, had a tumultuous start, serving less than two weeks before facing his own impeachment from opposition lawmakers. The Constitutional Court ruled seven to one that the accusations against him were insufficient to warrant dismissal. The justices noted that while the impeachment motion was valid, it did not meet the necessary legislative threshold for removal, thus enabling Han to return to office immediately. TRT. This ruling comes amid a larger political crisis in South Korea, as the nation grapples with divisions exacerbated by the ongoing scrutiny of Yoon’s administration, which now awaits a ruling on whether his impeachment will be upheld or overturned. Yoon's martial law declaration had sent shockwaves through the country, leading to widespread protests and criticism from the opposition and citizens alike. Detailed accounts suggest that Han’s reluctance to appoint justices to the constitutional court was a key factor in his impeachment; however, the court found these accusations not severe enough to justify removal. NBC News. In his first statements following the court's decision, Han expressed gratitude toward the justices, emphasizing the need for unity in a time of political division. "I believe that all citizens are clearly speaking out against the highly polarized political sphere. I think there is no place for division now," he stated, indicating a desire to stabilize the government and address critical issues facing the nation. CBS News. Looking ahead, the Constitutional Court has yet to announce a verdict on Yoon’s impeachment, a decision that remains highly anticipated. If upheld, South Korea may be required to hold a presidential election within 60 days. If Yoon is reinstated, he will return to office amid a fractured political landscape, deepening the already intense scrutiny of his leadership amidst a challenging socio-political environment. New York Times.