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07:00
Political Crisis Deepens in South Korea; Impeachment Motion Filed Against Acting President
South Korea finds itself in the midst of a severe political crisis as the opposition Democratic Party has filed a motion to impeach acting President Han Duck-soo. This unprecedented move intensifies political tensions in the country, already reeling from the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol following his controversial declaration of martial law earlier this month.
The Background of the Crisis
The turmoil began when President Yoon declared martial law on December 3, a decision met with widespread backlash. Subsequently, on December 14, the National Assembly stripped Yoon of his presidential duties, but the final judgment on his impeachment lies with the Constitutional Court.
The court, however, faces a critical challenge: it currently lacks three judges. While the remaining six members can proceed, even a single dissenting vote could overturn Yoon’s impeachment. The opposition-controlled National Assembly has called for the swift appointment of the three judges to ensure a fair review, but Han has delayed the process, citing the need for bipartisan consensus.
Impeachment Motion Against Han Duck-soo
The Democratic Party’s decision to pursue Han’s impeachment stems from his refusal to appoint the judges. Opposition leaders argue that his inaction demonstrates a lack of commitment to upholding the constitution.
“We have filed the motion and will report it to the plenary session today,” said MP Park Sung-joon, with plans for a vote on Friday. If successful, this would mark the first time in South Korea’s democratic history that an acting president is impeached. Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok is expected to assume the role of acting president if the motion passes.
The Impasse Over Constitutional Court Judges
Han has defended his position, stating that an acting president’s role is to maintain stability rather than exercise significant powers, such as appointing judges to constitutional institutions. He insists that such appointments should result from bipartisan agreement.
However, opposition leaders contend that Han’s inaction is politically motivated, accusing him of obstructing justice. They have also criticized his rejection of special bills aimed at establishing independent investigative bodies to probe Yoon’s imposition of martial law and corruption allegations involving his wife.
Broader Implications and Escalating Tensions
The crisis has raised concerns about the country’s governance and the potential for further instability. Yoon, who faces rebellion charges, has refused to cooperate with law enforcement investigations and has obstructed searches of his office. Despite being summoned for questioning on several occasions, he has yet to comply.
The Corruption Investigation Office for High-Ranking Officials, working alongside police and military authorities, has scheduled another summons for Yoon this Sunday, following his failure to appear on December 25.
Looking Ahead
The unfolding political drama in South Korea underscores the fragility of its democratic institutions during times of crisis. The outcome of Friday’s vote on Han’s impeachment will set a significant precedent and could determine the trajectory of the country’s governance in the coming months.
As the situation evolves, South Korea faces the daunting task of navigating through political uncertainty while safeguarding its democratic processes.
