South Korea is currently navigating a significant political upheaval following the impeachment and arrest of President Yoon Suk Yeol. The crisis stems from Yoon's controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, which he justified by accusing opposition parties of engaging in "anti-state activities" and collaborating with North Korean elements to undermine the nation. This move led to widespread political unrest and allegations of rebellion against Yoon.
Impeachment and Arrest
In response to the martial law declaration, the National Assembly acted swiftly. On December 14, 2024, lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to impeach President Yoon, with 204 out of 300 members supporting the motion. This decision resulted in Yoon's immediate suspension from office, pending a final ruling by the Constitutional Court on his permanent removal. As of March 7, 2025, a South Korean court has canceled the arrest warrant for the impeached president, potentially leading to his release from jail as he awaits trial on insurrection charges. The Seoul Central District Court's decision cited procedural errors in the detention process and the expiration of the legal detention period. However, Yoon remains detained as prosecutors consider an appeal.
Interim Leadership
In the wake of Yoon's suspension, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assumed the role of acting president. However, Han's tenure was short-lived; he was impeached on December 27, 2024, for failing to promulgate bills related to the investigation into Yoon's actions. This led to Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok stepping in as the acting president.
Impact on Domestic Policies
The political turmoil has had ripple effects on domestic policies. Notably, a 13-month dispute involving over 13,000 trainee doctors and medical students, who have been boycotting classes and staging walkouts, has been ongoing. The conflict began after the government, under Yoon's administration, proposed increasing medical school admissions by 2,000 in 2025 to address a projected doctor shortage by 2035. In an effort to resolve the dispute, the acting government has offered to freeze the number of new medical students, marking a significant policy shift.
International Relations
The crisis has also affected South Korea's international relations. Acting President Choi Sang-mok has ordered a review of the impact of recent U.S. tariffs on South Korean exports and has called for unity among government branches to address the escalating trade tensions.
As South Korea awaits the Constitutional Court's decision on Yoon's impeachment, the nation faces a period of uncertainty. The outcome will not only determine Yoon's political fate but also set the course for the country's democratic processes and governance in the coming years.