SEOUL: Tensions are escalating in South Korea

as demonstrators gathered outside the parliament on Saturday, December 14, calling for the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol. Concurrently, pro-Yoon supporters are set to rally in downtown Seoul in a dramatic display of political division.

Grassroots Mobilization and Celebrity Support

In a show of solidarity with the protesters, several K-pop stars have publicly criticized President Yoon's leadership and are organizing to provide food and beverages to those attending the rally. This grassroots mobilization highlights the growing discontent among the populace regarding the administration's recent actions.

Impeachment Vote on the Horizon

Yoon is confronting a critical impeachment vote, following his controversial attempt to impose martial law earlier this month, a decision that shocked many and ignited fierce debate within his own party. Though the decree was rescinded within hours, it pushed South Korea into a constitutional crisis, leading to widespread demands for his resignation due to perceived violations of the law.

Political Division within the PPP

Opposition parties are set to hold the impeachment vote at 4 PM local time. In a surprising turn of events, members of Yoon’s own conservative People Power Party (PPP) are now divided. After boycotting the first impeachment effort last week, influential party leader Han Dong-hoon has encouraged members to participate in the vote, with at least seven members indicating they will support the impeachment.

Meeting the Majority Requirement

To successfully impeach Yoon, the opposition, controlling 192 of the 300 parliamentary seats, requires eight votes from the PPP to meet the two-thirds majority threshold. Ahn Cheol-soo, a PPP lawmaker advocating for impeachment, stated on Facebook that his decision stems from a desire for economic and diplomatic stabilization.

The Stance of the PPP

Despite this shift among some party members, the PPP’s official position remains against impeachment as they convene on Saturday to deliberate. If the vote passes, Yoon will maintain his role in office until the Constitutional Court delivers its verdict, with Prime Minister Han Duck-soo stepping in as acting president. Should the court rule in favor of impeachment or if Yoon opts to resign, a presidential election must be conducted within 60 days.

Yoon's Criminal Investigation

Yoon is currently under criminal investigation for allegations of insurrection related to his martial law declaration, and his international travel has been restricted. Refusing to entertain the thought of resignation, Yoon declared in a recent speech that he would "fight to the end," stating that his drastic measures were essential to navigate political gridlock and defend democracy against internal threats.

Public Opinion on Impeachment

Polls reveal a polarization within the public; while two-thirds of Yoon’s supporters oppose impeachment, an overwhelming three-quarters of the broader electorate supports it. Elected in 2022 and initially embraced by international allies for promoting democratic values, Yoon now faces severe domestic backlash that complicates his administration's stability.

Market Reactions and Future Outlook

Financial markets are reacting to the unfolding crisis, with South Korean shares experiencing a modest uptick as investors hold out hope for clarity post-vote. However, the shadow of political upheaval looms large over the nation, with many questioning South Korea’s reputation as a beacon of democratic resilience in the region.

Conclusion

As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the parliamentary proceedings and the mobilization of citizens in a country grappling with fundamental questions about governance and accountability. Will this be the turning point in Yoon's presidency? Stay tuned for further developments.