South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol is set to face a second impeachment motion on Saturday as authorities investigate accusations of rebellion over his controversial martial law decree that sparked political turmoil in the country.
The order, meant to address political impasse, shocked the country, divided his Janshakti Party (PPP) and led to widespread calls for his resignation.
The opposition-controlled parliament rejected Yun’s order and demanded his impeachment for violating the law. With the impeachment vote scheduled for 4 p.m., large protests are expected. While the PPP fended off the first impeachment attempt last week, internal dissent continues to grow. At least seven PPP MPs have expressed their willingness to support the motion.
The main opposition Democratic Party, which has 192 of the 300 parliamentary seats, needs eight PPP votes to secure the two-thirds majority needed for impeachment. The party described Yun’s actions as “madness” and warned that “rejecting impeachment is treason against the people,” Reuters reported.
If impeached, Yun will lose his rights while the Constitutional Court decides his fate. Prime Minister Han Duk-soo will serve as president during this period. Meanwhile, Yun is also being investigated for alleged rebellion in the declaration of martial law.
In a speech on Thursday, Yun defended his order, claiming it was necessary to protect democracy from “anti-state forces”. He vowed to “fight to the end,” Reuters reported.
The crisis has polarized public opinion, with a Gallup Korea poll showing 75% of respondents support impeachment. The protests started after some K-pop celebrities donated food and drinks to the protesters.
Yun’s presidency has also drawn criticism for strained relations with opposition lawmakers and press freedom. The crisis has damaged South Korea’s democratic image and created political and economic uncertainty.
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