South Korea's acting president impeached, what happens next
What's the story
South Korean lawmakers have voted to impeach acting President Han Duck-soo. The decision comes two weeks after President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached for briefly imposing martial law. Han, who was serving as Prime Minister, took over presidential duties after Yoon's ousting. The impeachment motion against Han was passed by the opposition in parliament amid significant disorder.
Vote details
Unanimous vote leads to Han's impeachment
National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik said all 192 lawmakers present voted unanimously for Han's impeachment. The opposition accused Han of failing to prevent Yoon's power grab and deliberately avoiding a special investigation into the insurrection. "I announce that Prime Minister Han Duck-soo's impeachment motion has passed. Out of the 192 lawmakers who voted, 192 voted to impeach," Speaker Woo said after the vote.
Majority dispute
Debate over impeachment majority, Han's response
While the ruling People Power Party (PPP) argued that a two-thirds majority was needed to impeach Han, the opposition claimed a simple majority sufficed. Speaker Woo sided with the opposition, leading to protests from ruling party MPs. After his impeachment, Han said, "I respect parliament's decision and in order to avoid further chaos and uncertainty, I will suspend my duties in accordance with relevant laws."
Presidential transition
Finance Minister assumes role amid economic concerns
Following Han's impeachment, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok will now take over as the acting president. Choi intends to consult military and foreign affairs officials. He had earlier urged the parliament to reconsider the impeachment due to possible economic repercussions. "Impeaching Han would only mean prolonged political uncertainties," said Huh Jae-hwan, an analyst at Eugene Investment & Securities.
Court review
Constitutional Court to review Han's impeachment
Han's case will now be reviewed by South Korea's Constitutional Court, which has 180 days to confirm or reject the impeachment motion. Six out of nine justices must agree for the impeachment to be upheld, however, there are currently three vacancies on the bench. The court is also reviewing President Yoon's impeachment case. A new presidential election would be required within 60 days if Yoon is permanently removed from office.