South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been impeached by the National Assembly following his contentious declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024. The motion passed with 204 votes in favor and 85 against, surpassing the required two-thirds majority. This decision immediately suspends Yoon from his presidential duties, which are now temporarily assumed by Prime Minister Han Duck-soo.
The impeachment stems from Yoon's brief imposition of martial law, which he justified as a necessary measure against alleged threats from North Korean forces. However, this move was met with widespread domestic backlash, including mass protests and criticism from his own party, leading to the revocation of martial law within six hours. Opposition lawmakers accused Yoon of fabricating provocations to justify his actions, further fueling public outrage.
The Constitutional Court now has up to 180 days to deliberate on the impeachment. If the court upholds the decision, Yoon will be permanently removed from office, prompting a national election within 60 days to elect his successor. This situation mirrors the 2017 impeachment of former President Park Geun-hye, highlighting ongoing political volatility in South Korea.
Public sentiment has largely favored Yoon's impeachment, with approval ratings plummeting to 11% and over 90% of the populace supporting his removal. The martial law declaration, intended to counter alleged North Korean sympathizers, was perceived as an overreach of power, leading to significant political turmoil and calls for accountability.
Despite his suspension, Yoon remains defiant, vowing to fight for his political future and asserting that his actions were in the nation's best interest. This stance has done little to quell the unrest, as thousands continue to protest, demanding his permanent removal and reflecting the country's strong democratic spirit.
