South Korean president loses impeachment vote

South Korea’s National Assembly has voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol after his failed attempt to impose martial law sparked widespread protests.

The impeachment motion passed with support from 12 lawmakers in Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP), who joined the opposition, citing growing public dissatisfaction. The controversial declaration of military rule, ostensibly to counter alleged North Korean threats, was overturned within hours by MPs, leading to mass protests and a record-low approval rating of 11%.

Thousands celebrated the impeachment as a victory for democracy, while Yoon remains defiant, describing the vote as a temporary pause and vowing to fight for his return.

With Yoon suspended, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has assumed the role of acting president, focusing on stabilizing the country.

The constitutional court now has 180 days to decide whether to uphold the impeachment, which could lead to new elections.

Meanwhile, public sentiment remains strong, with polls showing three-quarters of South Koreans supporting Yoon’s removal.

It must really be the South Korean protest anthem. Everyone figured out their own parts and sang in perfect harmony pic.twitter.com/6DU0fZA68p

— Joseph Kim (@josungkim) December 8, 2024