South Korea’s Constitutional Court has overturned the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, reinstating him as acting president in a decisive ruling that returns him to power immediately.

Han, who had been suspended since December, vowed to prioritize economic stability as the country grapples with rising pressure from what he described as a U.S.-led “trade war”.

“I believe the people are making it very clear, in one voice, that the extreme confrontation in politics must stop,” Han said in televised remarks following the court’s decision.

He thanked the cabinet for maintaining continuity during his absence and pledged to stabilize state administration.

“As acting president, I will do my best to maintain stable governance and devote all available wisdom and capability to safeguard national interests in the trade war,” he said.

South Korea, Asia’s fourth-largest economy, has found itself on the defensive amid tariff-heavy trade policies introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Washington has already imposed tariffs on South Korean steel and aluminum, and additional reciprocal tariffs targeting other sectors are expected to take effect next month.

Trump recently accused South Korea of unfair trade practices, citing what he claimed were “exorbitant tariffs” on American exports. Seoul has been pushing for exemptions to avoid broader economic fallout.

Han’s return comes against a backdrop of political upheaval that began with the impeachment and removal of President Yoon Suk Yeol, who triggered a constitutional crisis by declaring martial law in December.

In the aftermath, multiple resignations and criminal investigations have rocked the government, and Han—initially appointed acting president—was himself impeached on December 27 after clashing with an opposition-led parliament over judicial appointments.

But on Monday, the Constitutional Court voted 7-1 to strike down his impeachment.

In its ruling, the court stated that although the impeachment motion was valid, Han’s actions did not constitute a violation of the constitution or the law.

Five of the eight justices agreed that the charges were not sufficient to justify removal, while two others went further, arguing the motion was procedurally invalid because it did not secure the required two-thirds majority in parliament.

Han’s reinstatement is expected to bring short-term political stability, though challenges remain as South Korea navigates both economic headwinds and ongoing institutional fractures.