On December 14, 2024, the National Assembly of South Korea supported the impeachment of President Yun Seok-yul. 204 out of 300 deputies voted for the removal of the head of state, 85 voted against. The vote was secret, which indicates that impeachment is supported not only by the opposition, but also by part of the ruling People's Power Party.

The impeachment process was initiated after President Yun Seok-yul suddenly declared martial law on December 3, citing threats from North Korea and “anti-state elements,” by which he meant the opposition. However, the National Assembly quickly overturned the decision, after which opposition parties began the impeachment process.

Now the final decision on the president's removal must be made by the Constitutional Court of South Korea. The court is required to issue a verdict within 180 days, but in practice the process may take less time. During the trial, the powers of the president are transferred to Prime Minister Han Dak-soo.

South Korea has already faced impeachment proceedings in 2017, when President Park Geun-hye was removed from office after being accused of corruption. The current situation once again highlights the country’s political instability and the need to strengthen democratic institutions.

If the Constitutional Court upholds the impeachment, South Korea will hold a new presidential election within 60 days. Otherwise, Yun Seok-yeol will return to office. The court's decision is expected to be a key moment in determining the country's future political course.