The political battle lines are drawn in South Korea, as opposition leader Lee Jae-myung relentlessly pushed for President Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment, amid a backdrop of national unrest.
At a Glance
- Lee Jae-myung called for President Yoon’s impeachment to restore order.
- Public approval for President Yoon has plummeted with widespread protests.
- Yoon was impeached on December 16, 2024.
Lee Jae-myung’s Call for Impeachment
South Korean opposition figure Lee Jae-myung emerged as a vocal advocate for President Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment. As the leader of the Democratic Party, Lee argued that impeachment offered a swift resolution to the prevailing political chaos. He has stood firm, declaring, “impeachment is the fastest and the most effective way to end the confusion.”
With falling approval ratings, Yoon has faced mounting public pressure. Protesters fill the streets, demanding he step down, while the legislative branches geared up for a second impeachment vote. This intense political discord threatens the nation’s stability as parliamentarians weigh the decision.
South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol accused the opposition of trying to paralyze his administration and siding with North Korea in a defiant speech as the chief of his own party called for his impeachment https://t.co/wgPKwSsPK2
— Bloomberg (@business) December 12, 2024
Challenges Ahead for President Yoon
President Yoon’s administration is under fire, especially after a failed resignation attempt on December 3, retracting after six hours. This move triggered a crisis, overshadowing his vow to “fight to the end.” The People Power Party initially blocked an impeachment attempt, complicating Yoon’s political landscape.
Yoon declared martial law, citing it as a legal step to safeguard democracy but sparking unease across the populace. Lee insists lawmakers prioritize citizens’ welfare, stating, “What the lawmakers must protect is neither Yoon nor the ruling People Power Party but the lives of the people wailing out in the freezing streets.”
Yoon Suk Yeol survives impeachment move, party leader says the South Korean president will eventually step down https://t.co/v0mzx7hgCL pic.twitter.com/i1esS1k1Np
— Reuters (@Reuters) December 7, 2024
The Path Forward
Yoon faces criminal investigations for alleged insurrection, alongside his impeachment. Political allies are falling away, leaving Yoon in a tenuous position.
Concerns over governance and stability linger as prosecutors eye possible indictments for Yoon. Lee warns of the lasting impact of these decisions, urging, “History will remember and record your decision.”
South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung sought to force through a highly contested budget Tuesday in a show of political clout as he seeks to build momentum for another impeachment bid against President Yoon Suk Yeol https://t.co/g2kIskvpFx
— Bloomberg (@business) December 10, 2024
Sources
1. South Korean president faces second martial law impeachment vote
2. South Korea opposition leader urges president’s party to back impeachment over martial law
