South Korea’s President Park Geun-hye has become the country’s first democratically elected leader to be forced from office.

Judges unanimously upheld Parliament’s decision to impeach Park over her role in a corruption scandal involving close friend Choi Soon-sil, reports the BBC.

She now loses her presidential immunity and could face criminal charges.

There are reports one person protesting outside court in support of Park has died - details are still emerging.

The court ruling is the culmination of months of turmoil which brought South Koreans to the streets in protest.

Park has been suspended from presidential duties since December, when parliament voted to impeach her, with the country’s prime minister taking over her responsibilities.

The court decision means South Korea must now elect a new president by early May.

Choi meanwhile has been charged with bribery and corruption for allegedly pressuring big companies to give money in return for government favors. Park has been accused of colluding with her. Both women have denied wrongdoing.

BDST: 1155 HRS, MAR 10, 2017
SR