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- South Korean parliament votes to impeach President Yoon in historic 204-85 decision
- Impeachment follows Yoon’s unprecedented martial law declaration on December 3
- Constitutional crisis triggers largest political upheaval since 2017 impeachment
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Essential Context
In a dramatic turn of events comparable to South Korea’s 2017 presidential crisis, Parliament voted overwhelmingly to impeach President Yoon Suk-yeol after his controversial martial law declaration. The move represents the most significant constitutional crisis in recent South Korean history.
Core Players
- Yoon Suk-yeol – South Korean President facing impeachment
- Han Duck-soo – Prime Minister assuming presidential duties
- Democratic Party – Opposition leading impeachment charge
- Constitutional Court – Final arbiters of impeachment validity
Key Numbers
- 204-85 impeachment vote margin
- 190-0 vote rejecting martial law
- 11 days between martial law declaration and impeachment
- 6 of 9 justices needed to uphold impeachment
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The Catalyst
President Yoon’s December 3 martial law declaration, citing “anti-state activities,” sparked immediate constitutional crisis.
The unprecedented move prompted unified opposition and public protests across South Korea.
Inside Forces
Even Yoon’s own People Power Party fractured, with several members supporting impeachment.
Opposition parties successfully mobilized public sentiment against perceived authoritarian overreach.
Power Dynamics
Parliament demonstrated institutional strength by rapidly countering executive overreach.
Constitutional Court now holds decisive power in determining Korea’s political future.
Outside Impact
U.S. State Department expressing “deep concern” over democratic stability in key Asian ally.
Regional markets showing volatility amid political uncertainty in world’s 10th largest economy.
Future Forces
- Constitutional Court must rule within 180 days
- Interim government faces immediate policy challenges
- International relations may require recalibration
- Early elections possible if impeachment upheld
Data Points
- Dec 3, 2024: Martial law declared
- Dec 14, 2024: Impeachment vote succeeds
- 180 days: Constitutional Court deadline
- 2 years: Time remaining in Yoon’s original term
- 28%: Yoon’s final approval rating
