South Korea Constitutional Court begins reviewing president impeachment motion News
Arlington National Cemetery, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
South Korea Constitutional Court begins reviewing president impeachment motion

The Constitutional Court of South Korea commenced its review on Monday of the parliamentary impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. The proceedings follow Yoon’s controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, which sparked public outrage and allegations of insurrection and abuse of power.

The court announced it will hold its first preparatory hearing on December 27, prioritizing Yoon’s impeachment trial. The bench, currently operating with six members due to three vacancies, requires unanimous consent for the impeachment to be upheld. The court has 180 days to deliver its ruling, which, if unfavorable to Yoon, will trigger a presidential election within 60 days.

On December 14, the National Assembly passed an impeachment motion against Yoon, with 204 votes in favor and 85 against. The motion was brought forward by opposition lawmakers after a previous attempt on December 7 failed when members of the ruling People Power Party boycotted the vote. The impeachment immediately suspended Yoon’s presidential powers, with the Constitutional Court to decide whether to uphold the motion or reinstate him.

The impeachment vote followed nationwide protests, with over a million citizens rallying near the parliament and presidential office after the initial vote failed. Protesters demanded Yoon’s impeachment and the arrest of lawmakers opposing the motion. Public anger intensified after Yoon dismissed the opposition as engaging in a “wild sword dance,” further galvanizing support for his removal.

Investigations into Yoon’s martial law declaration have also accelerated. Prosecutors and a joint investigation unit comprising the police, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials, and the defense ministry are probing allegations of insurrection. Multiple officials, including former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, have already been arrested. Yoon has twice declined requests to appear for questioning, citing the need to appoint legal counsel.

Amid deepening divisions within the ruling party, several members of the People Power Party have resigned, expressing disillusionment with its handling of the crisis. Public celebrations erupted in cities like Seoul, Pusan, and Taejon following the impeachment vote, underscoring the national significance of the unfolding legal and political drama.

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