President Yoon Suk Yeol of South Korea was ousted from office after prosecutors accused him of abusing his power by declaring martial law in December without parliamentary approval.
Impeachment Details
- Mr. Yoon had been under arrest since February 14 and was impeached by the National Assembly in a vote that was largely boycotted by lawmakers from his own party.
- The impeachment is expected to be upheld by the Constitutional Court unless Mr. Yoon can successfully appeal and obtain a stay before the court’s ruling.
Allegations of Corruption
- Mr. Yoon faces corruption charges related to his decision to impose martial law on December 7 without consulting lawmakers.
- Prosecutors stated that Mr. Yoon expressed a desire for "emergency measures" against opposition parties during a meeting with Defense Minister Shin Won-sik, claiming they were obstructing government affairs through filibustering.
Martial Law Declaration
- Mr. Yoon declared martial law in a televised announcement, labeling the National Assembly as "a den of criminals" and justifying his actions as necessary governance.
- In response, lawmakers voted unanimously to lift martial law just hours later, leading to the withdrawal of troops and police.
Legal Proceedings
- The Seoul Western District Court issued a warrant for Mr. Yoon’s detention for questioning amid public outrage over his actions.
- He became the first sitting president in South Korea to be arrested while still in office. A court granted a formal arrest warrant on February 14, fearing evidence might be destroyed.
- Protests erupted across South Korea following the news of his detention, with many viewing his actions as unconstitutional.
Potential Consequences
- Mr. Yoon maintains his innocence but faces up to three years in prison if convicted.
- South Korean presidents serve a single five-year term but can remain in office until removed or until their term ends if impeached.
- Vice President Han Duck-soo would temporarily take over until elections are held within two months after a parliamentary vote to oust the president.
Broader Political Context
- Last week, former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was also charged with abuse of authority related to her appointment, amid growing public pressure.
- President Moon Jae-in, who appointed Han, stepped down last year following criticism over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The ongoing leadership crisis could exacerbate tensions between rival factions ahead of the next election scheduled for November.
The situation remains fluid, and it is uncertain whether the new leader will have the time to serve a full term given the current political turmoil.
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