South Korea's National Assembly on Saturday debated the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol over his controversial declaration of martial law, as protests demanding his removal intensified across the country. The parliamentary vote, likely to fail due to a boycott by ruling party lawmakers, has deepened the nation's political crisis. President Yoon, who apologized earlier for his short-lived imposition of martial law, described the measure as a desperate attempt to address political gridlock but admitted it caused public anxiety. The martial law declaration, overturned by lawmakers within hours, saw troops deployed to the National Assembly and military helicopters hovering overhead — the first such action in over 40 years. The impeachment motion requires support from two-thirds of the National Assembly, but opposition lawmakers fell short of the 200 votes needed, with only three ruling People Power Party (PPP) members participating in the vote. Opposition leaders accused Yoon of attempting a "self-coup" and drafted impeachment charges centered on rebellion allegations. Nationwide protests have seen tens of thousands rallying near the National Assembly, calling for Yoon's ouster. Smaller counter-protests by his supporters labeled the impeachment attempt unconstitutional. If impeached, Yoon's powers would be suspended pending a Constitutional Court decision, and a new presidential election would be held within 60 days if he is removed. Yoon's martial law decree, which labeled parliament a "den of criminals," has sparked outrage among South Korea's allies, including the United States and Japan. Revelations of alleged orders to detain opposition politicians during the brief martial law period have fueled calls for his resignation. Defense officials involved in the enforcement of martial law, including the counterintelligence commander, face suspensions and investigations. With public opinion polls suggesting majority support for impeachment, South Korea's political landscape remains deeply fractured, posing challenges to its democratic stability and governance. — Agencies
