In a dramatic turn of events, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is facing a second impeachment vote in parliament as opposition forces and citizens rally for his removal over a controversial martial law decree. The parliamentary session, scheduled for Saturday, comes on the heels of national outrage following Yoon’s unprecedented attempt to impose military rule—a mandate that lasted a mere six hours and has since plunged South Korea into significant political turmoil.

The call for impeachment arises from charges including insurrection, stemming from an incident wherein Yoon dispatched military troops into the legislature, escalating tensions and sparking protests nationwide. Just 11 days ago, amidst growing dissent, Yoon’s declaration of martial law was met with resistance from lawmakers and citizens alike, who ultimately managed to thwart his attempts to repress dissent.

With the opposition parties requiring just eight votes from the ruling People Power Party for impeachment, last week's parliamentary session revealed a stark divide. Yoon’s party, instead of participating, chose to boycott the vote, arguing that Yoon should be granted the opportunity to resign rather than face impeachment. However, seven lawmakers from the ruling party have since indicated their changing stance, expressing support for impeachment.

As the political climate grows increasingly uncertain, Yoon has vowed to fight back against the National Assembly's efforts to oust him, dismissing calls for his resignation. Meanwhile, the opposition has threatened to hold weekly votes until Yoon is removed, setting the stage for prolonged political conflict.

Should the impeachment pass, Yoon would be suspended from his duties while the Constitutional Court deliberates his fate, a process that could extend up to six months. In the meantime, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would likely assume the role of interim leader, despite his lack of significant political power as an appointed official.

“History will remember your choice,” urged opposition leader Lee Jae-myung to fellow lawmakers. “Your priority should be to protect the livelihoods of the people lamenting in the streets in need of change.”

Ahead of the crucial vote, thousands of citizens are gathering outside parliament, brandishing signs that demand: “Impeach Yoon Suk Yeol, the Ringleader of Insurrection!” The mass mobilization underscores the deep-seated public discontent with Yoon’s administration and the perception of a government veering towards authoritarianism.

In their impeachment proposal, opposition lawmakers contend that Yoon’s martial law declaration blatantly contravened the Constitution, which permits such measures only in cases of war or extreme national crisis. Allegations against Yoon also include accusations of an attempted insurrection, as the military presence was seen as a direct interference with the legislative process.

The night of his martial law declaration saw a chaotic scene unfold as military troops clashed with citizens and parliament aides—who fought back with barricades and fire extinguishers, ultimately leading to the law's retraction.

Insurrection in South Korea carries severe penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty for alleged leadership, and the police investigation into Yoon's actions continues to intensify. Following his controversial decree, a number of his former advisors—including the former defense minister—have already been arrested, further highlighting the gravity of the situation.

As public discontent grows, recent surveys reveal that President Yoon's approval rating has plummeted to just 11%. A staggering 75% of the population supports his impeachment, and 71% perceive him as guilty of insurrection.

South Korea stands on a precarious political precipice as the nation closely watches the developments leading up to the anticipated impeachment vote—one that could reshape the country’s political landscape for years to come.