SEOUL, South Korea – South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is facing possible impeachment after his unprecedented declaration of martial law plunged the nation into political turmoil.
Opposition lawmakers began impeachment proceedings just hours after the National Assembly unanimously voted to cancel the martial law order, which Yoon lifted six hours after its imposition.
The impeachment motion, which alleges Yoon abused his powers and violated the constitution, could be voted on as early as Saturday, December 7, 2024.
If two-thirds of the National Assembly’s members support the motion, the case will advance to the Constitutional Court, which will decide whether to remove Yoon from office.
Martial Law Declaration Sparks Outrage
Yoon’s decision to deploy heavily armed soldiers onto the streets of Seoul late Tuesday shocked many in South Korea, a country still grappling with its history of military-backed dictatorships.
The president justified the move by citing an unspecified “anti-state” plot and accused opposition lawmakers of colluding with North Korea.
However, Yoon provided no concrete evidence to support these claims.
Critics argue the declaration, which included suspending political party activities and deploying troops to seal the National Assembly, was a desperate political manoeuvre rather than a legitimate response to a national emergency.
“The impeachment motion alleges that suspending parliament and deploying troops amounted to rebellion,” said a legal expert familiar with the proceedings.
Swift Rejection by Parliament
Lawmakers quickly mobilised to nullify the martial law order, with some climbing walls to evade the military cordon and assemble a quorum.
In a 190-0 vote, including 18 members of Yoon’s conservative People Power Party (PPP), the National Assembly revoked the order.
PPP leader Han Dong-hun later called for Yoon to suspend his official duties, further undermining the president’s position.
Impeachment Process and Political Stakes
The impeachment motion requires 200 votes in the 300-member National Assembly to pass.
Opposition parties, which hold 192 seats, would need support from eight PPP members to succeed.
If impeached, Yoon would be suspended while the Constitutional Court reviews the case, and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would assume presidential responsibilities in the interim.
The Constitutional Court, currently operating with three vacancies, needs six of its remaining judges to vote in favour of removing Yoon from office.
The opposition-led parliament is expected to expedite its recommendation of new justices to fill the vacancies.
Political Struggles and Corruption Scandals
Yoon’s martial law declaration comes amid mounting political and personal challenges. Since taking office in 2022, he has struggled to advance his agenda in an opposition-dominated parliament.
His administration has been marred by corruption allegations involving him and his wife, which have eroded his approval ratings.
The latest scandal centers on claims that Yoon and first lady Kim Keon Hee exerted undue influence on the PPP’s candidate selection for a 2022 by-election.
Yoon has denied any wrongdoing, but the accusations have fueled opposition attacks and deepened public discontent.
Historical Parallels
South Korea has a fraught history with martial law, which was frequently used by military leaders during the country’s authoritarian era to suppress dissent and consolidate power.
Yoon’s declaration has drawn comparisons to the coups led by Gen. Park Chung-hee in 1961 and Maj. Gen. Chun Doo-hwan in 1979, both of whom used martial law to quash opposition and tighten their grip on power.
What’s Next?
President Yoon is expected to address the nation on Thursday to outline his position as the impeachment process gains momentum.
Political observers warn that his presidency may not survive the mounting pressure, especially if his party fractures further.
The situation has created uncertainty for South Korea, a key player in regional security and the global economy.
The outcome of the impeachment proceedings could shape the country’s political landscape for years to come.
