Content: South Korean lawmakers are gearing up for a subsequent vote to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol this coming Saturday. The anticipated decision arises as investigators pursue further into charges of insurrection arising from Yoon’s contentious martial law declaration on December 3rd, setting off considerable political turbulence nationwide.
The president sidestepped an impeachment attempt last week with the ruling party’s representatives largely opting out of the voting process. Their course of action this coming round remains ambiguous. Dissent towards Yoon has grown, prompting a surge in public protests against his rule as his approval ratings continue to fall.
Countless citizens have braved the frigid winter weather to protest on Seoul’s streets in the last two weeks, demanding Yoon’s removal from office and arrest. Audrey Hong Gayeong, a 29-year-old protestor, appreciates the societal relevance of these demonstrations. Yoon’s debatable and ephemeral martial law era, a first for South Korea in over 40 years, triggered major political turmoil, hindered diplomatic endeavors, and disturbed financial markets.
Adversaries and law experts have accused Yoon of insurrection, a term legally defined as a revolt against the state’s administration aimed at undermining the constitution. His potential impeachment is rooted in the claim of Yoon instigating a state of disarray that risks South Korea’s peace. Despite Yoon denying the charges, claiming his directive served as a governance measure, he is still restricted from leaving South Korea pending investigations into potential rebellion crimes and abuse of power. If found guilty, rebellion instigators could face either the death penalty or life imprisonment.
If the impeachment motion is successful, it will cast a shadow over the powers and responsibilities of the presidential position until a Constitutional Court decision is pronounced, determining if Yoon remains in office or is relieved of his duties. In case of the latter, a national election will take place within 60 days to select a replacement leader. Yoon does enjoy presidential immunity against criminal charges but such protection does not cover allegations of insurrection and treason. It’s uncertain if he will be forcibly detained with potential conflicts from his presidential security service. His defense minister, police chief and head of Seoul’s Metropolitan Police Agency have been arrested regarding their part in the martial law episode, with senior military and government figures currently under investigation.