South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol faces impeachment proceedings following his controversial and short-lived declaration of martial law, which sparked outrage among lawmakers and citizens.
The declaration, made on December 3, was an unprecedented move to restrict political activities and censor the media, but it was swiftly rescinded after a dramatic parliamentary standoff.
Opposition lawmakers have accused Yoon of attempting to undermine democracy, with six parties, including the main Democratic Party, filing an impeachment motion.
“We can no longer allow democracy to collapse. The lives and safety of the people must be protected,” stated Kim Yong-jin, a Democratic Party representative, at a live press briefing.
The impeachment motion also seeks to charge key ministers, Kim Yong-hyun and Lee Sang-min, as participants in the martial law declaration.
While schools, banks, and government offices in Seoul remain operational, protests have erupted across the city, reflecting public discontent.
A vote on the impeachment motion could take place as soon as Friday, leaving Yoon’s political future hanging in the balance.
