On Saturday, South Korean lawmakers voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed attempt to declare martial law, which caused chaos in the country. The vote passed with 204 in favor, 85 against, and three abstentions, meeting the required two-thirds majority. The motion argued that Yoon’s martial law declaration was unconstitutional as there was no national emergency, and he failed to follow necessary procedures, such as informing the National Assembly in advance.
The vote was seen as a victory for democracy, according to opposition leaders.
Following the impeachment, Yoon was suspended from office, with Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assuming the role of acting president. Yoon’s declaration of martial law, which was quickly rescinded, had banned political activities and censored media. The move sparked widespread public outcry, and the impeachment vote reflects growing opposition to his leadership, especially within his own party.
Protests in Seoul saw large crowds supporting both sides, with some calling for Yoon’s resignation and others expressing concern about the opposition gaining more power. Yoon’s approval rating had already plummeted to a record low of 11% due to his handling of the situation. The constitutional court now has six months to rule on whether to uphold the impeachment.
The martial law attempt has raised alarms about South Korea’s democracy, with organizations like Human Rights Watch praising the impeachment process as a necessary check on power. Several officials, including former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, have been arrested in connection with the declaration.
Yoon has apologized for the anxiety his actions caused, but remains defiant, stating that he acted out of necessity. Meanwhile, the opposition continues to push for his removal, with many calling the impeachment a necessary step to restore stability in the country. The political turmoil in South Korea is far from over, with ongoing legal and political challenges facing both Yoon and his rivals.
