Breaking: South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol impeached by parliament two weeks after short-lived martial law decree

The National Assembly of South Korea has voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol, suspending him from office pending a decision by the Constitutional Court. The impeachment comes after Yoon’s failed attempt to impose martial law, sparking nationwide protests and plunging the country into political turmoil.

The impeachment vote saw 204 lawmakers in favor, 85 against, and three abstentions, with eight votes nullified. Yoon is now barred from leaving the country and could become the first South Korean president to face arrest while in office.

Charges Against Yoon

The impeachment bill accuses Yoon of violating the Constitution by deploying troops to prevent legislative action, an act considered insurrection. The Constitution permits martial law only in times of war or national emergency.

Aftermath and What’s Next

In Yoon’s absence, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will act as interim leader. However, his capacity to manage the situation remains uncertain due to his limited political power.

The Constitutional Court will now decide whether Yoon should be formally removed or reinstated within the next six months. If removed, Yoon will become the second South Korean president to be impeached, after Park Geun-hye in 2017.

Additional Report from The Guardian