South Korea’s opposition parties filed a motion Friday to impeach Acting President Choi Sang-mok. The majority Democratic Party announced this move amid growing political tensions in the country.
The impeachment process now begins, requiring only a simple parliamentary majority to pass. However, officials haven’t yet clarified the voting timeline.
Choi currently leads South Korea while serving as finance minister. He stepped in after lawmakers impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol for declaring martial law in December.
Opposition lawmakers control a commanding majority in parliament. They’ve grown frustrated with Choi for repeatedly vetoing their bills. His refusal to appoint a liberal-leaning Constitutional Court justice approved by parliament has further angered them.
The Constitutional Court now reviews Yoon’s impeachment case. They must decide whether to permanently remove him or allow him to return to office.
Professor Shin Yul of Myongji University believes the Democratic Party recognizes public fatigue over their numerous impeachment motions. “The Democratic Party has one clear objective: to force an early election as soon as possible,” Professor Shin explained.
Adding another liberal judge to the court could significantly impact the political landscape. It increases the chances of Yoon’s permanent removal and an early election.
Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung tops presidential polls. Yet he faces multiple criminal trials that could disqualify his candidacy. These include charges of election law violations and misuse of public funds.
If officials remove Choi from office, South Korean law requires a new presidential election within 60 days.
Political tensions have intensified as the court delays its ruling on Yoon. Demonstrations both for and against Yoon’s removal have become common throughout the country. A recent Gallup Korea poll shows 58% of respondents still support Yoon’s removal, though this number has decreased since December.
Yoon’s martial law decree has thrown South Korea into an unprecedented constitutional crisis. The nation, previously seen as a stable democracy and major economic power, now faces political uncertainty.
Opposition parties also previously impeached Prime Minister Han Duck-soo during his brief tenure as acting president. The Constitutional Court will rule on his case Monday. If they overturn his impeachment, Han would replace Choi as acting leader.
The Democratic Party claims Choi has violated his constitutional duties. South Korea’s highest court already ruled that his refusal to appoint the approved judge infringes on parliament’s authority.
