The Korea Conference of Religious Leaders (KCRL), representing seven major religious traditions in the country, has called on the South Korean people, government, and political leaders to respect the upcoming decision of the Constitutional Court regarding the impeachment of the president.
In a joint statement titled “Let’s Move Forward Together as One Nation,” issued on March 5, the religious leaders emphasized the need for national unity and adherence to democratic procedures.
“As long as the Constitution exists, its rulings must be upheld. Democracy is built on due process, and rejecting that process will only block the path forward for all,” the statement read.
The statement was issued by KCRL’s co-representatives, including Venerable Jinwoo, President of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism; Bishop Matthias Ri Iong-hoon, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Korea; Pastor Ko Kyung-hwan, President of the Christian Council of Korea; Na Sang-ho, Head of the Won-Buddhist Administration; Choe Jong-su, Leader of Confucianism in Korea; Yun Seok-san, Spiritual Leader of Cheondoism; and Kim Ryeong-ha, President of the Korean Association of Indigenous Religions.
Concerns over political and social turmoil
The religious leaders expressed deep concern over the political turmoil that has gripped South Korea since the declaration of martial law by the president on December 3 of last year.
The turmoil escalated following the impeachment of the president and prime minister, the president’s arrest and indictment for rebellion, and the ongoing impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court.
“Our international credibility has plummeted, economic losses continue to mount, and the people are enduring a harsh winter of anxiety and distress. However, what is most heartbreaking is the deepening divide and conflict within our society, which now threatens national unity,” the statement read.
The KCRL warned that increasing polarization and political infighting could further destabilize the country. “As polarization intensifies, meaningful dialogue and understanding grow more distant. But we must remember: South Korea belongs to no single individual or faction. It is a nation built and protected by all of us together.”
Call for respecting Constitutional Court’s ruling
With the Constitutional Court expected to deliver its ruling on the impeachment soon, the religious leaders underscored the importance of respecting the decision, regardless of the outcome.
“We trust that the Constitutional Court, as the nation’s last safeguard, will render a fair and just ruling. And we urge everyone—the people, the government, and the political leaders—to respect and accept its decision. Only through this can we restore public trust and rebuild our broken order.”
They further urged government officials and political leaders to put aside factionalism and accept the court’s ruling to ensure a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
“Now is the time to stop the fighting and move beyond conflict toward reconciliation. We call on the government and political leaders to rise above factionalism and extreme rhetoric. Instead, they must respect the Constitutional Court’s ruling and ensure a peaceful resolution to this national crisis. It is time to join hands—not in a battle for political victory, but in a commitment to serve the people.”
Plea for national unity and healing
Recognizing South Korea’s history of overcoming crises through resilience and cooperation, the religious leaders expressed confidence that the nation would weather this political storm.
“South Korea has always found wisdom and dignity in times of crisis. This time will be no different—we will overcome this hardship together.”
The KCRL also committed to praying for peace and healing in the country, emphasizing the need for reconciliation and solidarity.
“As religious leaders, we pray with all our hearts. May this land be filled with peace and stability. May the people heal, reconcile, and unite once again. May our democracy be safeguarded, and may South Korea achieve true national unity.”
The religious leaders ended their statement with a message of hope, affirming their belief that unity and trust in democratic institutions would lead the country out of its crisis.
“Together, we walk forward. At the end of this path, hope awaits.”
