South Korean lawmakers have begun impeachment proceedings against President Yoon Suk Yeol after his attempt to impose martial law was blocked by parliament.
Opposition lawmakers introduced the motion for impeachment, which will require at least 200 votes from the 300-member National Assembly to pass within 72 hours. This follows Yoon’s controversial declaration of military law, which he justified as necessary to protect the country from North Korean threats and anti-state forces. The announcement led to protests and tensions across the country.
Parliament swiftly rejected the martial law order, declaring it invalid and unconstitutional. In response, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed deep concern over Yoon’s decision, stating that Japan is closely monitoring the situation. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also urged that political disputes be resolved peacefully and according to the rule of law, reinforcing America’s commitment to South Korea’s stability.
With the impeachment motion now underway, President Yoon faces mounting political pressure as the country navigates one of its most turbulent moments in recent years.
