The impeachment stems from Yoon’s December 3 martial law declaration. He deployed troops to parliament, sparking outrage. Lawmakers fought past the soldiers to overturn the decree. The incident galvanized protests and led to Yoon’s impeachment. Parliament passed the motion by 204 votes to 85. Thousands gathered in Seoul, demanding his resignation. Supporters of Yoon held counter-protests.
Yoon vowed to continue fighting. He also promised to “temporarily stop” but said he would not give up. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, now acting president, pledged to stabilize the government.
The impeachment triggered investigations. Police raided the presidential office. Prosecutors detained former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun, who had supported the martial law order. Kim later attempted suicide in custody. Yoon faces allegations of treason, insurrection, and abuse of power.
Yoon defended his actions. He claimed martial law was needed to resolve political deadlock. He accused opposition lawmakers of colluding with North Korea. Critics rejected these claims, citing a lack of evidence. The move angered many South Koreans, who have resisted military rule since the 1980s.
The Constitutional Court will decide Yoon’s fate. The process could take up to six months. If upheld, Yoon would become South Korea’s second impeached president after Park Geun-hye in 2017.
The crisis leaves South Korea in turmoil. Political uncertainty also looms as the country navigates internal and global challenges.
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