South Korea’s Political Turmoil Deepens as Opposition Party Considers Impeachment Motions

SEOUL: South Korea is engulfed in political turmoil following President Yoon Suk Yeol's surprise declaration of martial law on Dec. 3, with radicals gaining influence within the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DP). The DP is contemplating a motion to impeach Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, accusing him of being a collaborator in the president's controversial decision, a move that could further destabilize the nation.According to Yonhap News Agency, the DP alleges that Prime Minister Han was aware of President Yoon's intent to declare martial law before a Cabinet meeting on Dec. 3 and failed to prevent it, rendering him culpable. If the impeachment motion passes the National Assembly, Han would be suspended, and Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok would temporarily assume his duties, potentially escalating the political crisis.The DP has expressed intentions to prepare impeachment motions against other Cabinet members who attended the Dec. 3 meeting. Rep. Kim Yong-min of the DP stated that these m inisters are collaborators for approving the martial law declaration, despite the absence of necessary conditions. However, critics argue that the urgency should be on restoring normalcy rather than pursuing legal actions against the prime minister and ministers.The political instability has already affected South Korea's legislative process, with significant bills, such as an equivalent of the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act, stalled in the Assembly. These bills are crucial for the survival of South Korean Big Tech firms in the global market. The ongoing turmoil also risks provoking a miscalculation from North Korea, potentially leading to broader conflicts.As South Korea navigates this crisis, there is growing concern about the nation's readiness for shifts in U.S. policy with the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. The DP's focus on impeachment has drawn criticism for exacerbating political unrest rather than prioritizing the nation's recovery. Observers urge the DP to consider moderates' voices and concentrate on measures that can help South Korea regain stability.