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South Korean Lawmakers Impeach President Yoon Amid Martial Law Controversy and Escalating Protests

South Korean lawmakers voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol in a second impeachment motion, amid investigations into allegations of rebellion related to his controversial martial law decree. The motion passed with 204 votes, surpassing the required 200. Yoon’s martial law, which lasted only six hours, caused political unrest, halted diplomatic activities, and shook financial markets. Public protests escalated, with Yoon’s approval rating plummeting. Yoon defended his actions, claiming the decree targeted opposition forces. Yoon becomes the second South Korean president to face impeachment, following Park Geun-hye’s removal in 2017. The Constitutional Court will decide on his removal.

first published: Dec 15, 2024 12:13 pm