South Korea plunged headfirst back to political turmoil after lawmakers dramatically impeached acting president Han Duck-soo on December 29, 2023. This marks the second presidential impeachment within less than two weeks, following the earlier impeachment of Yoon Suk Yeol on December 14, igniting protests across the country.
Just two weeks after stepping up to lead the nation, Han's tenure was cut short when he faced backlash over his refusal to appoint additional judges to the Constitutional Court. This refusal came at a time when there were three vacancies, preventing the court from adequately reviewing Yoon's impeachment trial. Han's impeachment sent ripples of unrest throughout South Korea, with protesters from both sides gearing up for significant rallies.
Supporters of suspended President Yoon are planning to rally aggressively, proclaiming they expect nearly two million participants to attend, as organizer Rhee Kang-san emphasized, "Nearly two million people will come together to protect President Yoon.” The fervor among Yoon's supporters shows no sign of waning, as complex feelings toward his presidency continue to swirl.
Conversely, organizers of rival protests raise the stakes of dissatisfaction against Yoon, declaring, "The people are now strongly demanding Yoon’s immediate dismissal and punishment.” This growing discontent captures the essence of the significant divide among the populace—a divide the political class must now navigate carefully.
Political observers are wary of the unprecedented nature of two immediate consecutive impeachments and the subsequent juggling of leadership. Han’s exit fueled concerns of instability, particularly since it thrust Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok, the newly appointed acting president, to assume such influential roles under unfathomable conditions. Lee Jun-han, a professor at the National University, remarked, overseeing this many shifts is peculiar, noting, “We’ve had an acting president before, but this is the first time we’ve had a substitute for a substitute.”
Choi mirrors the high tension surrounding the office, having stepped up right amid upheaval. He conveyed the gravity of the situation, asserting, "Minimizing governmental turmoil is of utmost importance at this moment.” He emphasized Choi's intention to work closely with the opposition-dominated parliament, acknowledging the complicated political framework he must navigate.
Political dynamics hang delicately on the balance, as resistance remains strong—Han was also accused of complicity surrounding Yoon's earlier failed declaration of martial law. The pressure remains palpable; should Choi reject efforts to fill the judges' vacancies, he could find himself on shaky ground, facing potential impeachment himself.
Adding to the complexity, the United States has signaled its intention to cooperate with Choi's administration. The U.S. State Department underscored its commitment, stating they recognize South Korea's capabilities to uphold constitutional standards. They expressed support for South Korea’s democratic integrity, reinforcing the ironclad alliance between the nations.
Yet, within South Korea, the situation remains fluid. The Constitutional Court is set to adjudicate the fate of both Yoon—the suspended president fighting serious allegations of treason—and Han. Since Han left office with pending judicial appetites, observers anticipate the forthcoming ruling could send shockwaves through the nation.
Choi's immediate priority seems to be cultivating stability, taking heed of South Korea's existing ties to the U.S. military presence, which includes nearly 28,500 troops. Choi’s initial conversations with military leaders emphasized preparedness to deter any provocations from North Korea amid increasing geopolitical tensions.
The country awaits clarity from the Constitutional Court—a process expected to span as long as six months—before South Korea's political instability will stabilize. If the court upholds Yoon’s impeachment, the nation would need to hold fresh presidential elections within two months of the ruling's announcement. Throughout this crisis, sentiments both for and against Yoon will undoubtedly continue to echo across South Korea’s vibrant civil society.
With the political crisis deepening, the road to political clarity seems treacherous, leaving South Korea entangled at the intersection of democracy and instability. All eyes remain on the Constitutional Court and its forthcoming decisions as citizens rally, demonstrating the vitality of collective voices amid this unprecedented moment.
