ISLAMABAD, (TDI): South Korea’s opposition announced on Tuesday its plans to impeach acting President Han Duck-soo over his refusal to sign into law special bills aimed at investigating his impeached predecessor, Yoon Suk Yeol.
Opposition Sets Deadline
According to AFP and local media, the main opposition Democratic Party has set a Christmas Eve deadline for Han to enact two special bills. These bills propose independent investigations into Yoon’s brief imposition of martial law and allegations of corruption involving his wife, Kim Keon Hee.
Political Turmoil
The political crisis began on December 14 when parliament impeached conservative President Yoon following his declaration of martial law 11 days earlier. The move has been described as one of the most significant political upheavals in South Korea in decades.
Acting President Han, who stepped in after Yoon’s impeachment, rejected the opposition’s demand during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, stating that bipartisan consensus was essential for passing the bills, AFP reported.
Opposition’s Response
Han’s refusal prompted a sharp response from opposition floor leader Park Chan-dae, who accused the acting president of attempting to prolong the political crisis.
“We interpret this as his intention to continue the insurrection by delaying proceedings,” Park said in a press briefing. “We will immediately initiate impeachment proceedings against Han.”
Investigations into Yoon
Yoon’s impeachment was triggered by an opposition-led vote, suspending his presidential duties pending a Constitutional Court decision.
Also Read: South Korea Court Begins Yoon Impeachment Review
The Democratic Party seeks to establish two independent investigative bodies: one to probe Yoon’s declaration of martial law and another to examine allegations of bribery and corruption linked to the first lady, Kim Keon Hee.
Yoon is currently under investigation by a joint task force comprising police, the defence ministry, and anti-corruption authorities.
Parliamentary Dispute
The opposition claims it needs only a simple majority in the 300-member National Assembly to impeach Han, as he is a cabinet member.
Also Read: South Korea Ruling Party Leader Resigns
However, the ruling People Power Party argues that a two-thirds majority is required since Han is serving as acting president.
