Pressure is mounting on South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol to step down, just days after he imposed martial law, only to be forced into reversing the decision by the country’s parliament.
Simultaneously, opposition lawmakers have filed an impeachment motion against Yoon, with a vote expected to take place later this week, either Friday or Saturday. Here’s a look at how Yoon could face impeachment, and what might happen if he resigns or is removed from office.
Why Did Yoon Declare Martial Law?
As per the reports of Leaders, the controversy began with an unscheduled television address late on Tuesday, in which President Yoon announced the imposition of martial law across South Korea. He accused the main opposition party, the Democratic Party, of aligning with North Korea and engaging in “antistate activities.” Yoon’s claims were severe, stating the need to “protect the country from North Korean communists” and eliminate “antistate elements,” though he did not provide any evidence to support these allegations.
In the aftermath of the announcement, Yoon’s defense minister ordered troops to block access to the National Assembly. However, members of parliament, including 190 of the 300 legislators, managed to push past security and convene a session. In a dramatic move, the parliament voted unanimously to lift the martial law. This swift response from lawmakers forced President Yoon to back down and retract his decision.
What’s Next for Yoon?
The mounting calls for Yoon’s resignation are not just the result of the martial law incident. The impeachment motion, filed by opposition parties, adds to the growing political crisis. According to the sources of Leaders, if the motion passes, it could force Yoon from office, sparking a potential leadership change. If Yoon resigns or is impeached, the South Korean constitution dictates that the Prime Minister would step in as acting president until a new election is held.
This crisis has already shaken the political landscape in South Korea, and how it unfolds could reshape the nation’s leadership in the days to come.
