South Korea’s Leadership Turmoil: What Comes After Yoon Suk-yeol’s Impeachment?

South Korea grapples with political turmoil as President Yoon Suk-yeol faces impeachment, leaving the nation’s leadership in flux.

At a Glance

President Yoon Suk-yeol impeached for attempting to impose martial law.
Acting President Han Duck-soo assumes leadership, reassures allies.
Constitutional Court has six months to decide Yoon’s fate.
Widespread protests and celebrations follow impeachment vote.
U.S.-South Korea alliance remains strong amid political crisis.

Impeachment Shakes South Korean Politics

In a stunning turn of events, South Korea’s National Assembly voted to impeach President Yoon Suk-yeol, suspending him from office and plunging the nation into a constitutional crisis. The impeachment, which passed with 204 votes in favor, including 12 from Yoon’s own party, came in response to the president’s controversial attempt to impose martial law. This marks the third time in South Korean history that lawmakers have voted to impeach a sitting president.

The impeachment has sparked both celebration and concern across South Korea. Opposition leaders hailed the move as a victory for democracy, while Yoon’s supporters decried it as political maneuvering. The president has vowed to contest the decision in the Constitutional Court, stating firmly, “I will never give up.”

South Korea's opposition-led parliament impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, suspending him from official duties over his short-lived attempt to impose martial law. Under the constitution, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo becomes acting president https://t.co/ukb8MDX2C7 pic.twitter.com/PD05HAP9d7

— Reuters (@Reuters) December 14, 2024

Han Duck-soo Steps in as Acting President

With Yoon’s suspension, former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has assumed the role of Acting President. In a move to stabilize the government and reassure international partners, Han quickly reached out to key allies, including the United States. In a phone call with U.S. President Joe Biden, Han affirmed the strength of the South Korea-U.S. alliance and discussed ongoing regional security concerns, particularly regarding North Korea.

“South Korea will carry out its foreign and security policies without disruption and strive to ensure the South Korea-US alliance is maintained and developed steadfastly,” Han stated, emphasizing continuity in the nation’s international commitments.

The Democratic Party, led by Lee Jae-myung, has chosen not to pursue impeachment proceedings against Han, citing the need to avoid further confusion in national governance. This decision reflects a pragmatic approach to maintaining stability during this tumultuous period.

Constitutional Court to Decide Yoon’s Fate

The impeachment process now moves to South Korea’s Constitutional Court, which has up to six months to render a decision on Yoon’s case. The court requires six out of nine justices to uphold the impeachment, but currently, there are only six justices in place, adding another layer of complexity to the proceedings.

“We’ve only just overcome a small mountain. There is a larger, steeper mountain ahead,” Lee Jae-myung cautioned, acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead in the legal process.

If the court upholds the impeachment or if Yoon chooses to resign, South Korea will face new elections. This uncertainty has sent ripples through the nation’s financial markets and raised concerns among international observers about the potential impact on regional stability.

Public Reaction and International Implications

The impeachment has ignited passionate responses from the South Korean public. Large-scale protests both for and against Yoon have erupted across the country, with a significant demonstration taking place outside the National Assembly. These events underscore the deep political divisions within South Korean society.

Internationally, South Korea’s diplomatic partners are closely monitoring the situation. The political crisis comes at a crucial time for regional security, with ongoing concerns about North Korean provocations. However, Acting President Han’s swift communication with allies has helped to allay fears of major policy shifts or instability in South Korea’s foreign relations.

As South Korea navigates this period of political uncertainty, the world watches closely. The outcome of this constitutional crisis will have far-reaching implications not only for South Korea’s domestic politics but also for its role on the global stage and the balance of power in East Asia.