South Korean lawmakers impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on Saturday due to his failed attempt to enact martial law last week.
The impeachment vote succeeded, with 204 out of 300 lawmakers supporting it against 85. Three abstained, and eight votes were nullified. Consequently, Yoon is suspended, awaiting the Constitutional Court’s decision within 180 days. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has taken over as the interim leader.
In Seoul, supporters and opponents of Yoon held large rallies. Police estimated that 200,000 people gathered to support the impeachment, while 30,000 rallied for Yoon near Gwanghwamun Square. The opposition Democratic Party claimed impeachment was necessary to protect democracy and the rule of law. Their spokeswoman, Hwang Jung-a, criticized Yoon’s actions as madness.
South Korea's opposition-led parliament impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, suspending him from official duties over his short-lived attempt to impose martial law. Under the constitution, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo becomes acting president https://t.co/ukb8MDX2C7 pic.twitter.com/PD05HAP9d7
— Reuters (@Reuters) December 14, 2024Read: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Banned from Foreign Travel
Volunteers at the pro-impeachment rally distributed hand warmers, coffee, and food to attendees. K-pop star Yuri from Girl’s Generation supported the protesters by providing food.
Breaking news: South Korea's parliament has voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol https://t.co/ecKAn0zyhM pic.twitter.com/2lSL5kFQHM
— Financial Times (@FT) December 14, 2024If the Constitutional Court confirms Yoon’s removal, he would be the second South Korean president to be impeached successfully. However, the court, which currently has only six judges, needs a unanimous decision to uphold the impeachment. Meanwhile, a recent Gallup Korea poll indicated that Yoon’s approval rating has fallen to 11 per cent, with 75 per cent supporting his impeachment.
