South Korean President Yoon Suk Yoon Impeached Over Martial Law Attempt, Interim Govt Takes Charge

South Korean lawmakers have voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol on Saturday, following his failed attempt to impose martial law last week.

Out of the 300 members of the National Assembly, 204 voted in favour of the impeachment on charges of insurrection, while 85 voted against it. Three lawmakers abstained, and eight votes were nullified.

Photo Credit: PTI/AP

The impeachment motion, which required a two-thirds majority to pass, accused Yoon of inciting insurrection through a series of riots and for threatening both the National Assembly and the public.

As a result, Yoon's presidential powers and responsibilities have been suspended, with Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assuming the role of interim president. The Constitutional Court will now determine whether to confirm Yoon's removal, with a decision anticipated within 180 days. Should the court uphold the impeachment, Yoon would become only the second president in South Korea's history to be removed, prompting a presidential election within 60 days.

Political crisis in South Korea

The impeachment comes amid a turbulent period for South Korean politics, with Yoon's approval rating dropping to an all-time low of 11%. Mass demonstrations have taken place across Seoul, with protesters demanding Yoon's removal and arrest. The city's authorities have deployed 1,000 safety personnel to maintain order.

Yoon's attempt to declare martial law on 3rd December faced widespread condemnation, with opposition parties and analysts accusing him of attempting a rebellion. Yoon justified his decision by claiming it was necessary to eliminate domestic political support for North Korea. However, his actions were widely viewed as a reckless gamble that exposed the country to heightened security risks.

The fallout has been significant, with the former defence minister arrested and several senior military officials under investigation. This has raised concerns about South Korea's capacity to manage national security, especially amid increasing tensions with North Korea.