Official announcement from the South Korean National Assembly

South Korean President Faces Second Impeachment as Ruling Party Backs Motion; Yoon Vows to Fight

Dec 12, 2024, 10:37 AM

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol is facing a second impeachment motion after his failed attempt to impose martial law. Opposition parties have submitted the motion to parliament, with the vote expected on Saturday. The ruling People Power Party leader has called for supporting the impeachment as the party's stance, with some members indicating they will vote in favor. President Yoon is under investigation for insurrection and treason, and the police have conducted raids on the presidential compound. In a televised address, Yoon defended his declaration of martial law as a necessary act to protect democracy, stating he will 'fight until the last minute' and accusing the opposition of 'dancing the sword dance of madness.' The Army Chief of Staff has been suspended after being named commander of the short-lived martial law. Parliament has also passed bills to appoint independent counsels to investigate the president's insurrection charges.