The Democratic Party in South Korea has made headlines as they continue to push for the impeachment of Acting President Choi Sang-mok, unfazed by criticisms from the rival People Power Party (PPP). On March 22, 2025, they declared their intention to uphold the constitution and protect the well-being of the people amidst growing partisan tensions.
Park Chan-dae, the leader of the Democratic Party's parliamentary group, led a demonstration at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, on March 21, calling for the ousting of President Yoon Seok-yeol. As they marched towards Gwanghwamun, the lawmakers shouted slogans demanding justice and accountability for the government’s alleged misdeeds.
In response to the impeachment proposal directed at Choi, Yoon Jong-gun, the Democratic Party’s spokesperson, emphasized that blaming the move for threatening national stability was utterly absurd, asserting that it is the Yoon administration that has caused turmoil within the nation. “The severance of the nation is the responsibility of the Yoon Seok-yeol administration,” said Yoon Jong-gun, “which is a regime that has inflicted chaos upon the state.” He contested the PPP’s arguments, which claimed that the Democratic Party’s actions would lead to national discord.
Despite criticisms labelling their actions as mere “hair-trigger impeachment” and accusations that they are sidelining economic concerns, the Democratic Party remained resolute. They charged that the PPP, which has been leading the government, has created a dictatorial state and described their impeachment efforts as an indicator of public discontent. Yoon Jong-gun indicated that the public mood reflects growing demands for accountability from a government that he claims has trampled on constitutional processes.
“It is bewildering how a party that has subjected the constitution to turmoil can make such claims,” Yoon continued, expressing incredulity at the PPP’s position. He referred directly to the historical references of the alleged unconstitutional acts committed by the current regime during past incidents of political upheaval.
The Democratic Party had initiated the impeachment process against Choi Sang-mok, the Minister of Economy and acting President, due to fears of a worsening economy and the direction of national policy, which they believe has been detrimental to the average citizen. “We will not yield to the interference and smear campaigns of the internal-affairs party, the PPP, as we endeavor to uphold constitutional governance and the livelihood of the people,” asserted a Democratic Party representative.
The ongoing political standoff raises questions about the future of governance in South Korea. As the nation approaches critical economic decisions amid rising public dissatisfaction with government policies, both parties hurl accusations at each other, pointing fingers over the state of the nation.
“The PPP’s support is in freefall,” Yoon Jong-gun stated in a press briefing. “If they do not break ties with the factions of extremism that they have allied with, they are bound for a path of despair.” He suggested that ignoring the majority voices of the public in favor of extreme elements could backfire for the PPP in the long run.
The Democratic Party's bold decision to proceed with the impeachment comes at a time when tensions are high within the political landscape. Speculation suggests that the upcoming ruling on Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party leader, in his ongoing trial could further exacerbate political tensions. Lee’s verdict is expected on March 26, raising the stakes for both he and the Democratic Party.
Yoon Jong-gun’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among opposition ranks, where demands echo for a political shift amidst deteriorating public faith in the ruling party. “The only way for the PPP to remain relevant is to listen to the majority, not the provocateurs within their ranks,” he concluded.
With the stage set for an intense political battle over the future leadership of South Korea, many are left wondering how this power struggle will affect the everyday lives of the citizens, who are increasingly fed up with the ongoing instability. The implications of this impeachment move will likely resonate far beyond political circles, affecting economic stability and public sentiment in the future.
