South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has managed to avoid impeachment following a failed attempt to impose martial law in Seoul. The opposition's motion for impeachment did not pass due to a boycott by most lawmakers from Yoon's party. However, the situation remains tense, with the possibility of further protests and political unrest looming.
Yoon's declaration of martial law was swiftly overturned by the National Assembly, which voted unanimously to cancel the order. Impeaching Yoon would require the support of two-thirds of the National Assembly and a decision by the Constitutional Court.
Will Yoon be impeached?
The opposition needs the backing of some members of Yoon's conservative People Power Party to secure the two-thirds majority required for impeachment. Calls for Yoon's suspension have intensified, with thousands of protesters demanding his removal from office.
What is martial law?
Martial law in South Korea allows the president to use the military in times of national emergency. Yoon's imposition of martial law was seen as an overreach of his powers and has sparked controversy.
Yoon's claims of an 'anti-state' plot and links to North Korea have been met with skepticism due to a lack of concrete evidence. The president's political struggles and corruption scandals have further complicated the situation.
Martial law's dark history in South Korea
Martial law has a troubling history in South Korea, with past leaders using it to suppress dissent and maintain power. The recent events have evoked memories of the country's authoritarian past and raised concerns about the erosion of democratic norms.
The outcome of the impeachment proceedings and the future of Yoon's presidency remain uncertain as South Korea grapples with political turmoil and public unrest.
