Opposition lawmakers in South Korea have moved to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol after he declared martial law only to lift it hours later. The impeachment motion, submitted by six opposition parties, including the Democratic Party, has called Yoon’s actions unconstitutional and illegal. The motion requires a two-thirds majority vote in the parliament to pass, with a potential vote as early as Friday or Saturday.
The impeachment proceedings will also target Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun and Interior Minister Lee Sang-min, as well as other officials charged with insurrection. Yoon’s conservative government has seen declining approval ratings as he faces opposition from the Democratic Party in advancing his agenda and conflicts over next year’s budget.
Yoon’s surprise martial law declaration accused opposition lawmakers of paralyzing the government and aimed to protect South Korea’s constitutional order and prevent pro-North Korea activities. The order, which banned political activities and media control, was swiftly nullified by lawmakers and soldiers after protests erupted.
U.S. officials, caught off guard by the announcement, affirmed the strength of the alliance with South Korea. Despite the brief period of martial law, the country’s credit rating was not expected to be impacted. Yoon’s office announced resignations among senior officials, while the political future of the president remains uncertain. The incident reflects a struggle within South Korea’s evolving democracy and further tests the leadership of President Yoon.
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