South Korea’s acting President Han Duck-Soo impeached as Yoon goes on trial

South Korea’s parliament has impeached Acting President Han Duck-Soo on Friday, less than two weeks after suspending President Yoon Suk Yeol’s powers following his brief declaration of martial law.

Yoon’s declaration of martial law, made on December 3, was based on intercepted intelligence of threats from “anti-state forces” and alleged North Korean conspiracies. He claimed these threats were working in tandem to destabilize the country. The swift impeachment triggered by his declaration has plunged South Korea deeper into political turmoil.

According to reports, Han’s impeachment, having served as acting president since Yoon was impeached on December 14, has pushed South Korea’s democratic system into uncharted territory.

In a statement released after the parliamentary vote, Han expressed his disappointment, acknowledging the potential impact of the unfolding events on future generations. However, he accepted the outcome. “I respect parliament’s decision, and in order to avoid further chaos and uncertainty, I will suspend my duties in accordance with relevant laws,” he stated.

Han added that he would await the Constitutional Court’s decision on the impeachment motion. Meanwhile, the ruling People Power Party, which opposes the opposition-led impeachment of Han, has filed a constitutional petition to challenge the move.