South Korea’s Constitutional Court began proceedings on Monday to address the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, following his controversial attempt to impose martial law. This action has caused significant political unrest in the country.
Yoon was removed from office by parliament on Saturday after his failed effort to suspend civilian governance, a move that plunged South Korea into one of its worst political crises in recent years. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has stepped in as interim leader during the proceedings.
The court has up to six months to decide whether to uphold the impeachment. If the decision stands, South Korea will hold new elections within two months.
Investigations into Yoon and his associates regarding the December 3 martial law declaration are ongoing. Authorities have accused him of spearheading the attempt, and he is currently under a travel ban. Prosecutors summoned Yoon for questioning about allegations of insurrection and abuse of power, but he has reportedly refused to cooperate.
The probe involves multiple agencies, including police, anti-corruption offices, and the defense ministry, who also seek Yoon’s participation in their inquiries. He is alleged to have orchestrated plans to deploy special forces to parliament, leading to confrontations between military personnel and parliamentary staff.
Massive protests both for and against Yoon have gripped the capital, with demonstrators on both sides promising to maintain their pressure as the court deliberates. Meanwhile, police have arrested two military officials connected to the martial law declaration, with prosecutors seeking further warrants.
Adding to the fallout, the leader of Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP), Han Dong-hoon, resigned, apologizing for the turmoil caused by the incident. He condemned extremist views within the party and urged a return to unity.
North Korea, which often weighs in on South Korean affairs, labeled Yoon a “ringleader of rebellion” and blamed him for the political chaos. In its first official response, North Korean state media criticized Yoon’s martial law attempt and accused him of shifting blame to opposition parties.
Despite the political turbulence, Acting President Han Duck-soo has emphasized maintaining national stability, holding discussions with U.S. President Joe Biden to reaffirm bilateral ties and ordering increased military vigilance against North Korea.
Relations between the two Koreas remain strained, with the North continuing missile launches in defiance of international sanctions. This latest crisis only deepens the tension between the nations.
