Turbulent times…
The South Korean parliament voted to impeach acting President Han Duck-soo, temporarily stripping him of power less than two weeks after the same body voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol after briefly declaring martial law.
The vote passed 192-0, according to news outlets.
Han’s duties and powers have been taken away until the Constitutional Court makes a decision on whether to reinstate him as president or dismiss him entirely. The court typically has nine judges on the bench, but due to delays in filling vacancies it currently counts six justices. For Han’s full removal, all six of them would need to vote in support, according to CNN.
The same court is also reveiwing Yoon’s impeachment. In total, the court has up to half a year to take up the cases and make a decision. (RELATED: Report: South Korean President Invokes Martial Law)
Han said that he respects the legislature’s decision and “will suspend my duties under relevant laws to avoid further confusion and uncertainty.”
Choi Sang-mok, the deputy prime minister and finance minister will take over the duties.
Yoon was impeached on Dec. 14, less than two weeks after briefly declaring martial law in the country on Dec. 3
Yoon’s declaration in early December drew fierce criticisms in the National Assembly and triggered protests outside of the building’s halls. He reversed the decision within the day and issued a public apology stating he would not repeat the mistake. (RELATED: South Korea Parliament Unanimously Demands End To Martial Law Amidst Tense Standoff)
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