South Korea is enduring another chapter of political turmoil as its parliament voted to impeach acting president Han Duck-soo on December 27, 2024, just weeks after the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. This unprecedented political crisis marks the first time an acting president has faced impeachment under the country’s constitutional framework.
From the outset, Han Duck-soo, who was appointed to the presidency after Yoon's failed attempt to impose martial law on December 3, found himself at the center of mounting accusations. Critics claim he has not only obstructed the impeachment process against Yoon but has also engaged in actions perceived as adding to the existing turmoil rather than restoring stability. The chaos kicked off when Han made the controversial move to block the appointment of key judges who would oversee Yoon’s impeachment trial. This decision spurred significant backlash, particularly from opposition lawmakers who have argued Han is delaying constitutional procedures.
During the parliamentary vote, which required only 151 votes from the 300-member National Assembly to pass, 192 lawmakers cast their votes in favor of Han’s impeachment. The significance of this moment cannot be understated—several members of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) protested the voting process, with shouts of “invalid” and “abuse of power” echoing through the assembly chamber. Despite this opposition, Han stated his respect for the National Assembly's decision, affirming his commitment to await the ruling of the Constitutional Court.
Political analysts have noted the deteriorated public trust as the won fell to its lowest level against the dollar since the global financial crisis 16 years ago. This economic backdrop enhances the gravity of Han’s actions, as lawmakers now cast blame back and forth over South Korea's political gridlock. The urgency to stabilize the situation is palpable, but leaders seem embroiled more deeply than ever.
Han faced fierce criticism for his supposed dereliction of duty. He has been accused of complicity with Yoon, not only for obstructing the impeachment process but also for delaying the appointment of judges to the Constitutional Court. Public sentiment has leaned heavily against him. According to the Democratic Party's floor leader, Park Chan-dae, Han’s actions have been “derelict,” noting, “It is unacceptable for Han to interfere with Yoon’s impeachment and investigations.”
National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik added fuel to the fire, arguing, “The postponement and refusal to appoint Constitutional Court justices is unjustified. The acting president must fulfill the responsibilities demanded of him by the Constitution.” These comments highlight the depth of frustration among lawmakers and the public concerning Han’s actions.
Calls for accountability extend beyond the legislature and have been echoed by civil society organizations. The People’s Solidarity for Participatory Democracy openly criticized Han, stating it is “unacceptable” for him to hinder the impeachment process. This significant endorsement from civil groups places additional pressure on Han to act decisively to restore the rule of law and public confidence.
The political climate remains fraught with tension. Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, another figure embroiled in the martial law discussions, attempted suicide during detention shortly after the insurrection attempt, which sent shockwaves through the public and government. The Democratic Party has indicated its intention to push for another impeachment vote against Yoon for his controversial martial law attempt, signaling the fight within parliament is far from over.
Faced with this unprecedented impeachment, Han has not only been suspended from office but his actions have also invited intense scrutiny and division within the PPP. A faction of the PPP advocates for shielding Han from responsibility, with sentiments expressed behind closed doors such as “Han cannot appoint three new Constitutional Court justices.” This faction’s motivations reveal the depth of the split affecting the ruling party as it navigates the fallout from Yoon’s presidency.
Looking forward, the concurrent crises of the won’s devaluation and the sustained public unrest signal turbulent times for South Korea’s governance. Han Duck-soo’s presidency has spotlighted the fragility of political institutions when loyalty conflicts with constitutional accountability. South Korean citizens are left wondering whether order can be restored or if the political chess game will continue to undermine their trust and stability.
This tumultuous chapter encapsulates the urgent need for genuine leadership to emerge and restore not only constitutional order but also the faith of the populace. The impeachments of both Yoon and Han are significant, but the effects may resonate well beyond just political personnel—they challenge the very structure of democracy within South Korea.
