The Minute to Read (Weekdays) series provides a quick overview of significant events in Korea everyday, conveniently condensed into a one-minute read. Here’s a recap of what happened yesterday: Mar. 24.
Han Duck-soo reinstated as acting president after court dismisses impeachment
South Korea’s Constitutional Court ruled against the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on March 24, stating that his alleged legal violations were not severe enough to justify his removal from office. Han had been suspended for 87 days after the National Assembly passed an impeachment motion last December, citing five charges, including his refusal to appoint Constitutional Court judges. The court found most of the accusations lacked legal grounds, though four justices acknowledged Han’s rejection of justice nominees violated constitutional provisions. Only one justice supported impeachment, while two others questioned the quorum used for the motion. With the ruling, Han resumed his duties as acting president, pledging to tackle pressing national issues, reduce political polarization, and uphold the Constitution.
Trump’s targeted tariff push puts South Korea on alert
U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to announce a more targeted and selective reciprocal tariff plan on April 2, focusing on countries with which the U.S. has large trade deficits, according to Bloomberg. South Korea, currently the eighth-largest contributor to the U.S. trade deficit, is likely to be among the countries affected. While Trump initially insisted on a “no exceptions” policy, he later signaled flexibility. The South Korean government is preparing for possible inclusion and has begun talks with U.S. officials, requesting exemptions and emphasizing bilateral ties, particularly in high-tech sectors. Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun also raised concerns about non-tariff issues, such as the U.S. objection to South Korea’s import ban on beef from cattle older than 30 months.
President Yoon’s impeachment ruling could be pushed back to April
March 23 marked 100 days since President Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment case was sent to South Korea’s Constitutional Court for review, but the court has yet to set a date for its ruling. Legal experts say the ruling could be delayed to April as several politically sensitive cases crowd the court’s docket in the last week of March. Concerns over potential clashes between those in support and against Yoon’s impeachment and the pending retirements of two justices further complicate the timeline. While March 28 is considered the earliest likely date for a ruling, experts say unresolved disagreements among justices could push the decision back further.
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