South Korea's National Assembly Votes to Impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol Amid Martial Law Controversy
In a historic move, the National Assembly of South Korea voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol on December 14, 2024, amid widespread controversy over his declaration of martial law earlier this month ¹. The impeachment motion, which was supported by 204 out of 300 lawmakers, marks a significant turning point in South Korean politics.
The crisis began on December 3, 2024, when President Yoon declared martial law, citing the need to defend the country against anti-state forces. However, the move was widely seen as an attempt to consolidate power and suppress opposition. The National Assembly responded by passing a motion to lift the martial law, which Yoon was forced to accept.
The impeachment motion was first introduced on December 4, 2024, but it failed to pass due to a boycott by the ruling People Power Party (PPP). However, after a series of dramatic events, including the resignation of several high-ranking officials and a wave of public protests, the PPP finally agreed to participate in the vote.
The second impeachment motion was passed with the support of 204 lawmakers, exceeding the required two-thirds majority. The motion accused President Yoon of treason and abuse of power, citing his declaration of martial law and attempts to suppress opposition.
As a result of the impeachment, President Yoon's powers and duties have been suspended, and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has taken over as acting president. The Constitutional Court of Korea will now review the impeachment motion and make a final decision on whether to remove President Yoon from office.
The impeachment of President Yoon has sent shockwaves through South Korean politics, with many analysts predicting a period of instability and uncertainty. However, others see the move as a positive step towards restoring democracy and the rule of law in South Korea.
- *President Yoon Suk Yeol:* The president of South Korea, who was impeached by the National Assembly on December 14, 2024.
- *Prime Minister Han Duck-soo:* The prime minister of South Korea, who has taken over as acting president following President Yoon's impeachment.
- *Han Dong-hoon:* The leader of the People Power Party (PPP), who played a key role in the impeachment process.
- *December 3, 2024:* President Yoon declares martial law, citing the need to defend the country against anti-state forces.
- *December 4, 2024:* The National Assembly passes a motion to lift the martial law, which President Yoon is forced to accept.
- *December 7, 2024:* The first impeachment motion is introduced, but it fails to pass due to a boycott by the PPP.
- *December 14, 2024:* The second impeachment motion is passed, with 204 lawmakers voting in favor of impeaching President Yoon.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0