South Korea has been plunged into a deep political crisis, as the country’s parliament voted to impeach acting president Han Duck-soo on December 27, just two weeks after voting to impeach President Yoon Suk-yeol. This turbulent situation began when President Yoon unexpectedly declared martial law on December 3, citing the need to protect the country from North Korean threats and anti-state elements. However, the controversial declaration was quickly reversed within 24 hours after lawmakers rejected it, sparking widespread protests and drawing international attention.
Following the reversal of the martial law, the South Korean parliament moved to impeach President Yoon on December 14. The impeachment requires the approval of at least six judges from the country’s Constitutional Court to be upheld. However, with only six judges currently appointed, rather than the usual nine, the situation became further complicated by the acting president’s refusal to approve the appointment of the additional three judges. This led to Han Duck-soo’s impeachment on December 27, marking a dramatic turn of events.
The political turmoil has had significant economic consequences, with the value of the South Korean won plummeting. Protests have become widespread, and the UK Foreign Office has issued updated travel advisories, urging caution for those planning to visit the country. With the situation still unresolved, South Korea’s political future remains uncertain as the country grapples with this unprecedented crisis.
