SEOUL, South Korea — South Korea’s parliament moved decisively on Saturday, impeaching President Yoon Suk Yeol following his controversial declaration of martial law, which lasted just six hours but created significant turmoil. The impeachment, passed by a 204-85 vote, has suspended Yoon’s presidential powers and duties, designating Prime Minister Han Duck-soo as the interim leader.
The action by the parliament ends a period of intense political deadlock that halted major governmental operations and initiated public protests. Yoon’s martial law decree on December 3, the first such action in over forty years in South Korea, was swiftly criticized and led to plummeting approval ratings for the president. Public demonstrations escalated as citizens demanded accountability and transparency from their leaders.
Following the impeachment, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assumed presidential responsibilities and endeavored to maintain stability. In his address to the nation, Han emphasized the importance of uninterrupted government operations and assured the international community, particularly neighboring countries and economic partners, that South Korea’s foreign policies would remain unchanged.
The Constitutional Court now has 180 days to decide whether Yoon will be permanently removed from office or reinstated. If Yoon is officially removed, a national election to select his successor will be required within 60 days.
The tension in the country’s political landscape extended into international reactions as well. U.S. President Joe Biden conferred with Han, reaffirming the United States’ “ironclad commitment” to South Korea. Meanwhile, responses from Japan highlighted the ongoing significance of stable relations between the two nations during this period of internal challenge.
Crowds of demonstrators outside the National Assembly reacted with jubilation to the impeachment news. Their chants and celebrations marked a poignant moment reflecting broad public outcry that had pressured the lawmakers to act against Yoon. However, not all responses were celebratory; supporters of Yoon expressed their disappointment, reflecting the deep political divisions within the country.
Yoon’s brief implementation of martial law involved deploying troops and police in an attempt to inhibit the parliamentary vote, leading to no major violence but stirring significant controversy. Opposition leaders accused Yoon of staging a rebellion by using the military against constitutional authorities, an action prohibited unless during wartime or similar national emergencies.
Prime Minister Han, a seasoned politician with experience across various governmental roles including a previous term as prime minister, now faces the challenge of navigating South Korea through these tumultuous times. He stressed the critical nature of his temporary leadership and called for diligence and unity among public servants.
As the country confronts this political crisis, the global community watches closely, recognizing the potential implications for regional stability and international economic markets.
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