South Korea’s opposition Democratic Party has announced plans to seek a vote in parliament on Saturday to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over his controversial declaration of martial law. The party argues that the declaration caused widespread confusion and fear among the public.
The ruling People Power Party, divided over the situation, has said it will oppose the impeachment. However, the opposition needs at least eight votes from the 108 members of the ruling party to secure the required two-thirds majority in the 300-seat parliament.
Yoon’s administration has been rocked by turmoil, with Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun resigning on Thursday following the martial law order. Yoon nominated Choi Byung-hyuk, the ambassador to Saudi Arabia, to replace him. Kim had advised the president to declare martial law earlier, a move that led to the deployment of troops around parliament, sparking a chaotic scene when soldiers attempted to enter the National Assembly building.
The opposition has also filed complaints accusing Yoon, his interior minister, and Kim of treason, with investigations underway. Meanwhile, the unrest has alarmed international leaders, with Japan expressing concerns about the instability in Seoul, and the United States warning of potential risks to American troops stationed in South Korea.
The turmoil has stirred fear among South Koreans, many of whom worry about a return to military dictatorship. Protests have erupted, with demonstrators calling for Yoon’s resignation. If the impeachment vote passes, the Constitutional Court will have up to 180 days to decide whether to uphold it. Should Yoon be removed, a new election would be held within two months.
