South Korea faces unprecedented political turmoil after lawmakers launched a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk-yeol early Wednesday. The move follows Yoon’s controversial declaration of martial law, the country’s first in over 40 years, which he claimed was necessary to address national security threats and “anti-state forces.”
Opposition lawmakers, who hold a strong majority in the 300-member legislature, accused Yoon of imposing martial law to derail criminal investigations into himself and his family. The impeachment motion, presented during an emergency parliamentary session, alleged that Yoon “gravely and extensively violated the constitution” with his actions.
“This is an unforgivable crime—one that cannot, should not, and will not be pardoned,” stated opposition MP Kim Seung-won during the session.
Dramatic Reversal of Martial Law
Yoon’s late-night televised announcement imposing martial law on Tuesday cited threats from North Korea and domestic “anti-state forces.” The decree prompted the deployment of over 280 troops, some arriving by helicopter, to secure key sites, including parliament. However, opposition lawmakers defied the military presence, forcing their way into the legislature to vote down the decree.
Under South Korea’s constitution, martial law must be lifted if a parliamentary majority demands it. Hours after lawmakers rejected the decree, Yoon rescinded martial law in a second televised address.
Thousands of protesters, angered by Yoon’s actions, staged demonstrations outside his office and parliament. Many waved flags and called for his immediate resignation. “Yoon’s imposition of martial law without legitimate cause is a grave crime,” said demonstrator Lim Myeong-pan, 55.
Impeachment Prospects and Fallout
The impeachment motion is expected to be voted on within 72 hours. Given the opposition’s numerical advantage, Yoon faces a strong likelihood of being impeached. If passed, the motion would be reviewed by South Korea’s Constitutional Court, a process that could determine the president’s future.
The main opposition Democratic Party has also filed charges of “insurrection” against Yoon and senior officials, a crime punishable by life imprisonment or even death.
Meanwhile, senior aides and the defense minister have offered their resignations, with the latter accepting “full responsibility” for the crisis.
International and Economic Reactions
The United States, South Korea’s key ally, expressed surprise and relief at the reversal of martial law. “The ROK is demonstrating democratic resilience,” said U.S. National Security Council spokesman Sean Savett.
Domestically, Yoon’s approval ratings have plummeted to 19%, according to a Gallup poll. The crisis has also rattled financial markets, with Seoul’s stock exchange closing down over 1% on Tuesday.
As tensions continue, protesters vowed to intensify their calls for Yoon’s removal. “This is a pivotal moment for South Korea’s democracy,” said Kim Min-ho, a 50-year-old protester. “We will not rest until he steps down.”
