TLDR:
President suspended after impeachment success
Martial law declared, then retracted
Acting president takes over leadership
Seoul (The Thursday Times) — South Korea’s political landscape was upended as President Yoon Suk-yeol faced suspension following a successful parliamentary impeachment motion. Sparked by his declaration of martial law earlier this month, the move ignited protests across the capital and divided the ruling party, leading to a seismic shift in the nation’s leadership.
Impeachment motion garners critical support
Parliament witnessed a dramatic session as lawmakers cast their votes on the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol. Initially expected to be a close contest, the motion garnered significant traction after dissent from within the ruling People Power Party. While opposition leaders spearheaded the effort, members of Yoon’s own party crossed the aisle, securing the two-thirds majority required for passage. The motion cited his contentious decision to declare martial law as a breach of constitutional values, a move that alienated citizens and lawmakers alike.
The impeachment followed weeks of escalating political tension. Last week’s attempt to pass the motion narrowly fell short, but widespread public outcry and growing unease within the ruling coalition tipped the scales during the second vote. The final tally saw overwhelming support for Yoon’s suspension, marking a rare instance of bipartisan agreement in South Korea’s fractious political environment.
Public outrage outside parliament
The parliamentary vote unfolded against the backdrop of mass demonstrations. Thousands of protestors gathered outside the National Assembly building, waving flags and carrying banners demanding Yoon’s resignation. The crowds, largely peaceful but resolute, reflected growing discontent with his administration.
The declaration of martial law earlier in the month acted as a flashpoint. Although it lasted only a few hours before being rescinded, it drew sharp criticism from citizens who viewed it as a reckless and authoritarian response to political challenges. Yoon’s public apology and retraction of martial law did little to quell the anger, leaving the opposition with fresh ammunition to challenge his presidency.
Martial law triggers political fallout
The martial law declaration on a December evening sent shockwaves across South Korea. It was the first such announcement in decades, immediately sparking widespread condemnation. Thousands took to the streets in Seoul, denouncing the move as an overreach of executive power. Opposition leaders labelled it a desperate attempt to consolidate authority amid declining approval ratings.
In the hours following the declaration, Yoon faced mounting pressure to reverse the decision. With protests growing across the country, the president rescinded martial law and issued an apology, admitting it was a hasty judgement. Yet, the damage was done, setting the stage for the impeachment motion that swiftly followed.
Prime minister assumes interim role
With Yoon suspended, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has assumed the role of acting president. The constitutional court now has six months to deliberate on Yoon’s permanent removal from office. Should the court uphold the impeachment, South Korea will head to fresh presidential elections within two months of the ruling.
Han, a seasoned political figure, faces the immediate challenge of stabilising a nation rattled by weeks of political turmoil. His leadership will be closely scrutinised as South Korea navigates this period of uncertainty, balancing domestic discontent with international perceptions of political instability.