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: Apr. 1.

President Yoon Suk-yeol delivers his final statement during the 11th and final hearing in his impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on the afternoon of Feb. 25. /News1
President Yoon Suk-yeol delivers his final statement during the 11th and final hearing in his impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on the afternoon of Feb. 25. /News1

President Yoon’s impeachment ruling set for Apr. 4

The Constitutional Court will deliver its ruling on the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol at 11 a.m. on April 4, 108 days after the National Assembly passed the motion citing his declaration of martial law and military deployments as constitutional violations. If six of the eight justices vote to uphold the motion, Yoon will be removed from office and a new presidential election must be held within 60 days. The court’s deliberations have taken longer than in any previous presidential impeachment case, setting records for both the post-argument and overall decision timelines.

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to reporters aboard Air Force One on Mar. 30 while returning to Washington, D.C. Trump, who had previously signaled reciprocal tariffs starting Apr. 2, said the measure would apply to all countries. /Reuters-Yonhap

S. Korean industries on edge as U.S. mulls broad tariff expansion

U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to impose reciprocal tariffs—on top of existing and upcoming duties—has sparked alarm among South Korean industries, which warn the cumulative burden could cripple exports to the U.S. Key sectors like automobiles, steel, and home appliances face potential tariff rates exceeding 50%, threatening billions in losses and prompting some firms to consider shifting production to the U.S. While semiconductors and petrochemicals may be less affected, the broader export-dependent economy faces serious risks.

Illustrated by Kim Hyun-kook

S. Korean unicorns defy slump, turn profitable for the first time

Several South Korean unicorns, including Viva Republica (Toss), Danggeun Market, and Bucketplace (Ohouse), posted their first annual operating profits in 2024 despite a sluggish investment climate, thanks to expanded services and monetization of large user bases. These companies grew revenue by branching into adjacent businesses—such as financial services, interior design, and hyperlocal advertising—and are now eyeing global expansion to sustain momentum. The shift signals a broader trend of profitability-focused growth among domestic platform startups.

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