On Saturday, South Korea’s parliament decided to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol because of a controversial martial law he declared earlier this month. This move surprised everyone and caused a lot of confusion in the country’s politics, affecting foreign relations and frightening investors.
Yoon, who used to be a public prosecutor, once helped investigate former President Park Geun-hye. In 2017, Park was impeached and removed from office due to serious charges like bribery and abuse of power. Now, Yoon faces even graver allegations and the Constitutional Court will decide if his actions were rebellious.
Key Events:
– Dec. 3: At 10:29 p.m., President Yoon announces martial law on TV. He claims the opposition-controlled parliament is filled with criminals. He says these rivals are hurting the country but doesn’t provide evidence.
– Dec. 4: After his announcement, soldiers surround the National Assembly to prevent lawmakers from meeting. Despite this, lawmakers gather and vote to lift the martial law unanimously.
– Dec. 5: President Yoon fires his Defense Minister, who he believes is responsible for the martial law. A party leader now thinks Yoon could take extreme actions again.
– Dec. 6: The leader expresses concerns about Yoon’s mental fitness and vows to impeach him.
– Dec. 7: Yoon apologizes for the martial law and says he will deal with the issues caused by his actions. However, a vote to impeach him does not pass.
– Dec. 8: The former Defense Minister is arrested for his role in implementing the martial law.
– Dec. 9: The Justice Ministry stops Yoon from traveling as investigations into his actions continue.
– Dec. 10: A military commander reveals that Yoon ordered troops to prevent lawmakers from meeting, but he did not follow those orders.
– Dec. 11: The former Defense Minister is arrested again and police look for evidence against Yoon but are blocked by his security.
– Dec. 12: Yoon defends his actions but faces a new impeachment vote. Other officials are also impeached.
– Dec. 14: The National Assembly impeaches Yoon with 204 votes in favor. Yoon vows to fight to keep his presidency, waiting for the Constitutional Court’s decision on his fate.
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