South Korea’s National Assembly has removed acting President Han Duck-soo from office, escalating the country’s ongoing political turmoil.
The motion to impeach Han was approved by 192 votes, exceeding the simple majority needed in the 300-seat parliament.
Han, who is also the prime minister, stepped in as acting president after President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached on December 14, 2024.
Yoon faced impeachment after briefly declaring martial law earlier this month, a decision that triggered widespread protests and heightened political tensions.
The Democratic Party, which holds a majority in parliament, led the move to impeach Han, accusing him of blocking the appointment of three judges to the Constitutional Court.
These appointments are seen as critical to handling the legal proceedings tied to Yoon’s impeachment. Han’s refusal to authorize the nominations has been interpreted as an attempt to stall the process.
In his response, Han acknowledged the Assembly’s decision and expressed his willingness to await the Constitutional Court’s ruling.
This development marks the first time in South Korea’s history that an acting president has been impeached.
Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok is expected to take over as acting president. However, Choi’s prior opposition to Yoon’s declaration of martial law adds further complexity to an already volatile political situation.
The instability has had a significant impact on South Korea’s economy. The won has fallen to its lowest level against the dollar since 2009, and the Kospi stock index has also seen a decline.
The Constitutional Court, which currently lacks its full complement of judges due to the unfilled appointments, will now face the task of reviewing the impeachments of both Yoon and Han.
With only six justices in place, there are concerns about delays, as at least seven are typically required to proceed.
Meanwhile, protests continue to erupt across the nation, with growing demands for Yoon’s arrest and a full investigation into his martial law declaration.
The situation has plunged South Korea into a deeper political and economic crisis, leaving the path forward uncertain.
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