Breaking News: South Korea Parliament Finally Impeaches President Yoon Suk Yeol

By Evans Momodu
2 minute read


South Korea's parliament has impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol following his attempt to impose martial law earlier this month, triggering a constitutional crisis and widespread public protests.

The impeachment motion, passed by a vote of 204-85, suspends Yoon from his presidential duties while the Constitutional Court determines within 180 days whether to uphold the decision or reinstate him. If removed, a national election must be held within 60 days to select his successor.

Yoon's declaration of martial law on December 3 cited a need to eliminate "shameless North Korea followers and anti-state forces," a pointed attack on his liberal rivals who dominate the National Assembly.

His announcement led to violent clashes between soldiers and protesters on the streets of Seoul, escalating tensions and drawing tens of thousands of demonstrators nightly in calls for his resignation and prosecution.

Though Yoon initially apologised and survived a prior impeachment attempt after members of his People Power Party (PPP) boycotted the vote, cracks within his party emerged. Seven PPP lawmakers openly supported the second impeachment motion, with their leader Han Dong-hoon encouraging them to take a stand.

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has been appointed acting president, and Yoon now faces a criminal investigation for alleged insurrection related to the martial law declaration.

His actions have intensified political polarisation in South Korea, where his conservative leadership has clashed repeatedly with the liberal-controlled parliament since he took office in 2022.
Source: Sky news
Image: CNN