South Korean opposition demands second impeachment vote – Reuters

Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party, stated that impeachment is the "most effective way" to restore constitutional order, which was disrupted after the six-hour martial law.

Lee Jae-myung described the President's earlier pledge to "fight to the end" as a declaration of "war against the people."

The opposition parties, holding a majority in parliament, had initiated the impeachment process for the second time.

At least eight members of the ruling People Power Party need to support the impeachment for it to pass.

After the approval, the case will be referred to the Constitutional Court, which will decide on the President's fate within six months.

President Yoon Suk Yeol had also faced intense criticism for his claims of North Korea's possible involvement in a cyberattack on the National Election Commission last year. However, he has provided no evidence to support these allegations.

Martial law in South Korea on December 3

On December 3, 2024, South Korea faced a serious political crisis following President Yoon Suk Yeol's unexpected declaration of martial law.

According to Yoon, the measure was necessary to protect the constitutional order from "anti-state" actions by opposition forces, which he claimed had paralyzed the government.

However, the President's decision sparked widespread protests among citizens and opposition groups. Clashes occurred between protesters and military personnel outside the parliament building.

The parliament quickly passed a resolution to lift martial law, with government support. As a result, the martial law, which lasted only six hours, was canceled later that evening.

This incident triggered a wave of criticism against Yoon Suk Yeol. The opposition continues to call for his impeachment after the first attempt on December 7 failed.

Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies have launched an investigation into Yoon Suk Yeol's actions.