South Korean lawmakers seek second presidential impeachment

Members of South Korea’s opposition party on Thursday introduced a bill to remove Prime Minister and acting President Han Duck-soo. Han took office after parliament earlier this month voted to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol, known for briefly declaring martial law. Opposition lawmakers this week moved to impeach Han over his reluctance to fill three Constitutional Court vacancies until political parties agreed on the appointments. Democratic Party floor leader Park Chan-dae said Han was acting as a proxy for insurrection by deferring the appointments. Han also vetoed several opposition bills, including an investigation into Yoon’s martial law declaration. Officials are expected to vote Friday on the motion to impeach Han.

How did we get to this point? Parliament impeached Yoon after he declared martial law for several hours on Dec. 3. The Constitutional Court is due this week to hold its first hearing in the trial to decide whether to remove or reinstate Yoon. Six justices must agree to remove an impeached president from office. South Korea’s financial minister would act as president if Han is impeached.

Dig deeper: Read Josh Schumacher’s report about the initial declaration of Yoon’s impeachment.