People Power Party lawmakers leave the plenary session hall of the National Assembly after the impeachment motion against South Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol was passed in Seoul on December 14, 2024. South Korean lawmakers on December 14 impeached Yoon over his failed martial law bid, with the opposition declaring a “victory of the people”. (Photo by YONHAP / AFP) / – South Korea OUT / NO ARCHIVES – RESTRICTED TO SUBSCRIPTION USE
The second impeachment motion against South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol has intensified the nation’s political crisis. The motion, led by opposition parties, accuses Yoon of unconstitutional actions, including implementing martial law during protests, which critics argue undermined democratic principles. The impeachment vote, however, failed after ruling party members walked out, preventing a quorum.
Massive protests erupted, with over a million South Koreans gathering near the National Assembly demanding Yoon’s resignation. Opposition leader Lee Jae-Myung has pledged to reintroduce the impeachment motion weekly to increase pressure. Meanwhile, the ruling party has suggested alternative measures, such as a constitutional amendment to shorten the presidential term, arguing that impeachment could disrupt government operations.
Experts highlight the deep polarization in South Korea, with the impeachment process further dividing society. Many believe Yoon’s leadership position is untenable, but there is no clear path to resolving the crisis. The situation remains volatile, with protests and political maneuvering likely to continue​.
Protests and strikes against South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol began on December 4, 2024, following his failed attempt to impose martial law, which sparked widespread outrage. The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), a major labor organization, has been at the forefront, mobilizing its 1.2-million-strong membership to demand Yoon’s resignation. Demonstrations have taken place across Seoul and other cities, involving various civic and opposition groups. Protesters accuse Yoon of undermining democracy, with banners and chants calling for his immediate removal.
This political crisis has intensified calls for impeachment, as martial law was seen as a drastic and unconstitutional measure. Protests have remained peaceful, but their scale reflects a significant challenge to Yoon’s administration​.
The first impeachment motion against South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol failed because it did not secure the required two-thirds majority in the National Assembly. To pass, the motion needed 200 votes out of 300. Opposition parties, holding 192 seats, lacked sufficient support as only three lawmakers from the ruling People Power Party participated in the vote. This failure was attributed to the governing party largely boycotting the session, preventing the motion from even reaching a formal ballot count​.
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