In a historic move, South Korea’s parliament voted on Saturday to impeach President Yoon Suk-yeol, suspending him from office immediately. With 204 votes in favor and 85 against, this marks only the third time in the nation’s history that a sitting president has faced impeachment.
What Led to the Impeachment?
The impeachment motion comes after allegations that President Yoon attempted to declare martial law on December 3. Critics accuse him of trying to undermine the country’s democratic institutions. The motion gained momentum as the main opposition Democratic Party rallied support, claiming Yoon’s actions threatened the nation’s constitutional order.
What’s Next for South Korea?
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has stepped in as acting president while the Constitutional Court reviews the impeachment case. The court will begin its proceedings on Monday and has up to 180 days to make a decision. However, past cases suggest a swifter resolution may occur, as seen with former presidents Park Geun-hye and Roh Moo-hyun.
If the court upholds the impeachment, South Korea will hold a snap presidential election within 60 days to elect a new leader. If the court rejects it, President Yoon will return to office and resume his duties.
Political Tensions Rise
The impeachment has intensified political divisions in South Korea. Acting President Han Duck-soo and several cabinet members are facing accusations related to the alleged martial law attempt. The main opposition party has vowed to pursue a thorough investigation into Yoon and others they describe as “accomplices of the insurrection.”
President Yoon’s Response
In a televised address following the impeachment vote, President Yoon expressed his commitment to South Korea, stating he would not give up. He defended his actions, asserting that the consideration of martial law was within his constitutional powers and aimed at protecting the nation from a “legislative dictatorship.”
The Road Ahead
As the Constitutional Court prepares to deliberate, the nation watches closely. The Democratic Party, holding a majority in parliament, plans to fill vacant judge positions on the court, which could influence the outcome. Meanwhile, public opinion is shifting; a recent Gallup Korea poll shows President Yoon’s approval rating has dropped to 11 percent, the lowest since his inauguration.
South Korea now faces a period of uncertainty, with its democratic institutions under scrutiny. The world watches as the nation navigates this political crisis, the outcome of which will have significant implications for its future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
