South Korea Faces Political Upheaval as Yoon Suk Yeol is Impeached

South Korea is reeling after President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached on December 14, 2024. His shocking decision to impose martial law earlier this month sparked protests, investigations, and political chaos, ultimately leading to his suspension.

It all began on December 3, when Yoon announced martial law in a late-night televised speech, saying it was necessary to fight “anti-state forces” and end a political deadlock. The military quickly banned lawmakers from working and stormed the opposition-controlled parliament with helicopters and special forces. Lawmakers escaped over fences as staffers and protesters tried to block soldiers.

Less than six hours later, Yoon lifted the martial law after a unanimous vote in parliament rejected it. The backlash was immediate. Opposition parties demanded his impeachment, and even his own People Power Party (PPP) was divided, with some members calling for his resignation.

As the political drama unfolded, international criticism grew. The United States called Yoon’s move “deeply problematic.” South Korean prosecutors opened a criminal investigation, and the justice ministry barred Yoon from leaving the country.

The tension reached a breaking point when parliament voted overwhelmingly to impeach him, with 204 of the 300 lawmakers in favour. At least 12 members of Yoon’s own party supported the motion. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has stepped in as acting president, while the Constitutional Court decides whether Yoon will be permanently removed.

This marks a pivotal moment for South Korea, as it faces questions about leadership, stability, and its path forward.