Political Turmoil in South Korea: Impeachment Motion Filed Against Acting President Han Duck-soo Amid Yoon’s Fallout

In a dramatic twist within South Korea's political landscape, the opposition has officially filed an impeachment motion against Acting President Han Duck-soo on December 26. This maneuver comes after Mr. Han’s refusal to appoint three Constitutional Court judges needed to finalize the impeachment process of his predecessor, the now-suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol.

The genesis of this crisis began on December 3, when Yoon made an unprecedented declaration of martial law that has since brought significant turmoil to the nation. Following parliamentary action on December 14 that stripped Yoon of his presidential duties, a ruling from the Constitutional Court is essential to solidify this decision. However, the court is currently lacking three judges, which creates a precarious situation; any dissenting vote could restore Yoon's powers.

The opposition Democratic Party, frustrated by Han’s inaction, accused him of failing in his constitutional duties. “We have filed the motion... and will report it to the plenary session today,” stated MP Park Sung-joon. A vote is expected immediately after, and if successful, this would mark an unprecedented impeachment of an acting president in democratic South Korea.

Han Duck-soo has argued that he will only appoint the judges after a compromise is reached between the ruling People Power Party and the opposition, stating, “A consensus between the ruling and opposition parties in the National Assembly, representing the people, must first be reached.” Critics, however, contend that his approach reflects a lack of resolve to uphold the constitution.

The Democratic Party's motion accuses Mr. Han of neglecting his responsibilities, particularly in relation to two special investigative bills proposed to scrutinize the controversial martial law declaration and graft allegations involving Yoon's wife, Kim Keon-hee. Despite the urgency to establish independent investigative bodies, Han's refusal has prompted warnings from the opposition about potential impeachment.

If the impeachment motion against Han is passed on December 27, it would add to the ongoing political strife that has gripped South Korea, as President Yoon is also facing criminal charges of insurrection related to his martial law pronouncement. If convicted, Yoon could face severe penalties, including life imprisonment.

In a rapidly changing political atmosphere, if the opposition's plans succeed, the South Korean Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok is poised to step in as the new acting president. The ongoing crisis not only endangers Yoon’s future but also signals a turbulent period for the nation’s governance, casting uncertainty on South Korea’s political stability moving forward. Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds!