South Korean Parliament Impeaches Acting President Han Duck-soo

South Korea’s political turmoil escalated as parliament voted to impeach Acting President Han Duck-soo, deepening the crisis triggered by the earlier impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol over a martial law order. The decision intensifies a policy deadlock and strains the country’s international standing.

The national assembly approved the impeachment motion on Friday with 192 votes, while the ruling People Power Party (PPP) boycotted the session. This comes as the constitutional court begins hearings to decide whether to uphold Yoon’s impeachment or reinstate him.

Background to the Crisis

Han assumed the acting presidency after Yoon was impeached for his controversial December 3 martial law declaration, which lasted six hours before MPs overturned it. The event evoked memories of South Korea’s transition from military rule in the 1980s, leaving many citizens unsettled.

Yoon Suk Yeol

The opposition Democratic Party, led by Lee Jae-myung, accused Han of complicity in Yoon’s martial law decree and of refusing to fill constitutional court vacancies. Lee denounced Han’s actions as “insurrectionary,” calling for the eradication of forces jeopardizing South Korea’s stability.

Political Deadlock and Public Outcry

In chaotic scenes, PPP lawmakers protested in the assembly, branding the impeachment invalid and demanding Speaker Woo Won-shik’s resignation. Meanwhile, Han issued a statement indicating his intent to step aside to avoid further disruptions until the constitutional court rules on his impeachment.

The acting president’s removal places Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok in charge. Choi urged lawmakers to reconsider the motion, citing risks to the economy and public welfare during a time of national uncertainty. “Our economy cannot bear this political instability,” Choi warned.

Legal and Constitutional Implications

The constitutional court now has up to 180 days to determine whether Han’s impeachment stands. A two-thirds majority is required for the decision to hold. Should the court uphold Yoon’s impeachment, South Korea will face a presidential election within 60 days.

Meanwhile, police have launched an investigation into the martial law declaration, including a raid on a presidential safe house.

The unfolding crisis highlights a pivotal moment for South Korea, as political divisions risk undermining governance in Asia’s fourth-largest economy. All eyes are now on the constitutional court’s decision, which will shape the country’s future leadership and stability.