South Korea’s parliament impeaches president over martial law attempt

South Korea’s parliament has impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his controversial martial law decree.

On Saturday, the national assembly passed the motion after a 204 to 85 vote.

This is the second national assembly impeachment vote on Yeol. Last Saturday, Yeol survived an impeachment vote after most ruling party lawmakers boycotted the floor vote.

Yeol’s presidential powers and duties will be suspended after copies of the impeachment are delivered to him and to the constitutional court.

The court has up to 180 days to decide whether to dismiss Yeol as president or restore his powers.

If ousted, a national election must be held within 60 days to replace him.

On December 3, the president declared martial law during a televised address, accusing the opposition Democratic Party of engaging in “anti-state activities” and collaborating with North Korean factions to undermine the government.

When martial law is declared, there is a suspension of civil rights and the imposition of military law. This typically happens during emergencies.

The declaration marked the first instance of martial law in South Korea in over 40 years. It was met with backlash from lawmakers and the public.

The situation escalated quickly, with military forces surrounding the national assembly.

However, within hours, opposition lawmakers convened and unanimously voted to revoke the decree, effectively nullifying Yeol’s order.