South Korea faces political turmoil as impeachment looms
Six opposition parties in South Korea have filed a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol following his decision to impose martial law. The vote on the motion could take place as soon as Friday.
6:24 AM EST, December 4, 2024
The president's decision to impose martial law has faced criticism, even among members of his own People Power Party. In a vote at a plenary session of parliament, convened three hours after the announcement of martial law, 18 deputies from this party supported a resolution calling for its repeal. President Yoon Suk Yeol withdrew martial law early Wednesday morning local time, and his government formally approved this decision.
As reported by BBC, six South Korean opposition parties have filed a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol, who declared martial law on Tuesday. According to Yonhap agency, the vote on the motion could take place as soon as this coming Friday.
For the impeachment to succeed, the consent of two-thirds of the deputies is required, which means at least 200 out of 300 members of the chamber, and subsequently at least six out of nine judges of the Constitutional Tribunal. The opposition holds 192 seats, which means it needs support from some members of the ruling party.
Controversies surrounding martial law in South Korea
The president's office stated that the declaration of martial law was in accordance with the constitution, which allows such actions in situations of national threat. However, observers point out that the president did not meet all legal requirements, including the obligation to inform the appropriate authorities.
The Speaker of the National Assembly Woo Won-shik was blocked by police when he tried to enter the parliament, forcing him to climb over a fence. Meanwhile, Democratic Party deputy Park Sen Won claims that soldiers in the parliament were armed with live ammunition and submachine guns, and snipers were present.
Sky News indicates that the South Korean president could resign voluntarily, as both the opposition and a substantial part of the public are calling for. However, it appears unlikely that Yoon Suk Yeol will choose this option. Sky News adds that even if a majority is found for the motion to impeach the former president, the entire procedure could take several months.
