Yoon’s declaration of martial law on December 3rd plunged South Korea into one of its most severe political crises in decades, culminating in his impeachment on Saturday, December 14th. This summary highlights the key events from Yoon’s controversial decision to his suspension from power.
From Martial Law to Impeachment
South Korea entered turmoil after President Yoon’s declaration of martial law, citing the need to root out pro-North Korean “anti-state forces” allegedly undermining the state. The military swiftly banned political activities, deployed troops to the opposition-controlled parliament, and attempted to forcibly remove lawmakers, sparking widespread protests and condemnation. Defiant legislators unanimously rejected the decree, forcing Yoon to lift martial law just six hours later. However, the political fallout was far from over.
Aftermath of Yoon’s Declaration of Martial Law
In the aftermath, Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP) began to fracture, with members openly criticizing his actions and some calling for his resignation. Meanwhile, the justice ministry barred Yoon from leaving the country, and prosecutors opened a criminal probe into his martial law declaration. Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun resigned under pressure and was later arrested. The political tension escalated further when Kim attempted suicide amid mounting investigations.
Yoon intensified the crisis on December 12th with a televised speech accusing North Korea of hacking South Korea’s election commission and raising doubts about his party’s electoral defeat. The National Election Commission denied the claim, fueling further public outrage and eroding Yoon’s credibility.
On December 14th, parliament voted to impeach Yoon with bipartisan support, suspending his presidential powers. At least 12 members of Yoon’s People Power Party joined opposition lawmakers in the impeachment vote. Their support helped secure 204 votes in favor, surpassing the two-thirds threshold required to pass the motion.
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assumed the role of acting president while Yoon’s case moves to the Constitutional Court for final deliberation.
Opposition Decides Against Impeaching Acting President Han
In a bid to stabilize the government, the opposition Democratic Party, led by Lee Jae-myung, announced it would not seek to impeach Han Duck-soo for his involvement in the martial law decision. Lee emphasized that excessive impeachment efforts could lead to confusion in national governance, acknowledging Han’s constitutional role as acting president during the crisis.
National Security Concerns Amid Political Turmoil
The political crisis has raised alarms over South Korea’s ability to counter North Korea’s nuclear threats and its growing ties with Russia. Acting President Han sought to reassure allies, including U.S. President Joe Biden, during a phone call, pledging to maintain a “watertight readiness posture” to prevent provocations. However, the resignation and arrest of key defense officials have left the country’s security apparatus in a precarious state.
