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| Image: The New York Time |
South Korea is in political turmoil after President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law sparked outrage. Opposition lawmakers from the Democratic Party plan to vote on impeaching Yoon this Saturday, citing fear and confusion caused by his actions. Yoon’s ruling People Power Party is divided, and impeachment requires support from eight of its members to pass.
The crisis escalated with the resignation of Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who had recommended martial law and ordered troops near parliament. Investigations are underway against Kim, Yoon, and others. Meanwhile, South Korea’s army chief has also offered to resign.
The declaration of martial law has raised international concerns. Japan expressed worries about regional security, and the U.S. criticized Yoon’s decision. The incident has evoked fears of a return to South Korea's authoritarian past and unsettled financial markets.
If the impeachment passes, the Constitutional Court will decide within 180 days whether to uphold it. In the interim, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would assume leadership. A removal of Yoon from office would trigger an election within 60 days. Yoon, elected narrowly in 2022, now faces plummeting approval ratings and political uncertainty.
