South Korean Lawmakers Impeach Acting President Amid Political Turmoil

South Korea’s political landscape plunged further into chaos as lawmakers impeached acting president Han Duck-soo, marking the country’s second presidential impeachment in just two weeks. This follows the suspension of his predecessor, President Yoon Suk Yeol, over a controversial martial law declaration that sent shockwaves worldwide.

Han, previously serving as prime minister, assumed the role of acting president on December 14 after Yoon’s impeachment by parliament on charges of insurrection. However, opposition lawmakers accused Han of stalling Yoon’s impeachment process and failing to ensure justice, leading to his own ousting.

“The impeachment motion for Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has been approved,” announced National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik. “Out of 192 votes cast, all 192 were in favor.”

The ruling People’s Power Party (PPP) strongly opposed the decision, arguing that impeachment required a two-thirds majority rather than a simple majority. Tensions flared in parliament as PPP members protested loudly, with some rushing toward the speaker and demanding his resignation. Notably, PPP lawmakers abstained from the vote.

Friday’s development also made history as South Korea’s first impeachment of an acting president. PPP leader Kweon Seong-dong urged Han to remain steadfast in his role despite the opposition’s actions. However, Han stated he would honor the parliament’s decision and await the Constitutional Court’s ruling on whether to uphold the impeachment.

Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok has since stepped in as acting president and prime minister. In his inaugural address, Choi emphasized the urgency of stabilizing the nation, pledging, “The government will focus all its efforts on mitigating the turmoil and steering the country through this challenging period.”

The ongoing political instability has taken a toll on South Korea’s economy. On Friday, the won hit a 16-year low against the US dollar, performing worse than it did after Yoon’s martial law declaration. Additionally, the KOSPI Index fell by 1.02% at market close, further underscoring the economic strain.