[Yoon Seok-yeol Dismissal] Jeong Geun-sik "Welcome Constitutional Court Ruling... Starting Reconciliation and Unity, Not Hatred and Hostility"

Jung Geun-sik, Superintendent of the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, stated on the 4th that he "welcomes the historic ruling" of the Constitutional Court's decision to dismiss President Yoon Seok-yeol.

Superintendent Jung made this remark in a separate statement immediately after the Constitutional Court's dismissal ruling that day.

Jung Geun-sik, the newly appointed Superintendent of Education for Seoul, is being interviewed by Asia Economy at the Jongno-gu Office of Education. Photo by Jo Yong-jun

Superintendent Jung said, "Four months ago, when history was on the verge of regressing in an instant, our citizens and the National Assembly protected the spirit of the constitution and democracy in the most peaceful way, and today the Constitutional Court reaffirmed this," adding, "This has created an opportunity to resolve the confusion and anxiety that had deeply overshadowed our society."

He continued, "It is time to leave behind the period of conflict and confrontation and move toward a better future for Korean society," and said, "I hope that the Republic of Korea can make a new start with the spirit of reconciliation and unity, not hatred and hostility."

Superintendent Jung also expressed gratitude to students, faculty, and parents.

He said, "Through this historic moment when democracy ultimately triumphed, we were able to confirm the power of our education that nurtured citizens who deeply recognize constitutional values," adding, "This was possible thanks to the efforts of students who move forward toward their dreams while cooperating with their peers, teachers who foster democratic citizens with strong pride, and parents who trust the schools."

He also noted, "Although there were serious concerns about the safety of students near the sites of large-scale protests, fortunately, we were able to get through this difficult period without any accidents," and said, "This was a result made possible because the entire educational community devoted themselves to ensuring safe commuting to and from school."

Superintendent Jung said, "As we turn the pages of history filled with the courage and passion of democratic citizens, I hope students can deeply engrave the meaning of constitutional values and democracy."

On the same day, Moon Hyung-bae, Acting Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court, held the impeachment trial ruling session for President Yoon at 11 a.m. in the Constitutional Court's Grand Bench and declared, "The respondent, President Yoon Seok-yeol, is dismissed."

The ruling time was 11:22 a.m.