South Korea’s National Assembly has impeached Acting President Han Duck-soo, intensifying the nation’s political crisis that began with President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment earlier this month.
Impeachment Details
On December 27, 2024, the opposition-controlled National Assembly voted 192-0 to impeach Han Duck-soo. Members of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) boycotted the vote, disputing the legitimacy of the impeachment process.
Background
Han assumed the role of acting president following President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment on December 14, 2024. Yoon faced impeachment after a brief and controversial declaration of martial law, which was swiftly overturned by the National Assembly.
Controversy Over Judicial Appointments
The impeachment of Han was precipitated by his refusal to appoint three judges to the Constitutional Court, a move that opposition parties viewed as an attempt to delay the court’s review of President Yoon’s impeachment. This refusal was seen as exacerbating the political deadlock and undermining the judicial process.
Next Steps
With Han’s impeachment, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok is expected to assume the role of acting president. The Constitutional Court is now tasked with reviewing the impeachments of both President Yoon and Acting President Han, a process that could take up to 180 days. If the court upholds the impeachments, South Korea may face snap elections, potentially leading to significant shifts in the nation’s political landscape.
Implications
The successive impeachments have plunged South Korea into unprecedented political instability, raising concerns about governance and international relations. The situation has also led to a halt in diplomatic engagements and security discussions with key allies, including the United States.
