South Korean Opposition Moves to Impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over Martial Law

CGC News Reporter December 5, 2024

South Korea’s opposition parties have submitted a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol following his brief and controversial declaration of martial law, which saw heavily armed troops surround parliament. The martial law, which lasted only about six hours, was lifted after lawmakers physically scaled walls to reenter the National Assembly and voted unanimously to rescind Yoon’s order.

The impeachment motion, jointly filed by the Democratic Party and five smaller opposition parties, could be voted on as early as Friday. A successful impeachment requires the support of two-thirds of the National Assembly, or at least 200 members, and approval from six out of nine Constitutional Court justices.

The Democratic Party, which holds a majority in parliament, called Yoon’s actions a “clear violation of the constitution” and an “act of rebellion.” Yoon’s martial law was initially aimed at quelling opposition to his government’s actions, but it was swiftly rejected by parliament. The declaration marked the first time in over four decades that martial law had been imposed in South Korea, recalling memories of military-backed regimes from the past.

Amid growing calls for his resignation, Yoon’s Cabinet members, including Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun, also faced mounting pressure to step down. In the event of impeachment, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would temporarily assume the presidential duties. The Constitutional Court’s current composition of six justices complicates the process, requiring the swift appointment of new members.Top of Form