Acting South Korean President and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo delivers an address to the nation at the government complex in Seoul, South Korea, December 14, 2024. Yonhap via REUTERS
South Korea's acting president faced an impeachment vote on Friday, as the country struggled to shake off political turmoil sparked by his predecessor's martial law declaration that shocked the world.
Acting president Han Duck-soo took over from President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was suspended following a parliamentary vote over his move to impose martial law on December 3, reports AFP.
But opposition MPs now want Han, the prime minister, removed from office too, arguing that he is refusing to accede to demands to complete Yoon's impeachment process and to bring him to justice.
In the impeachment motion put before parliament, the opposition said Han is "intentionally avoiding the special investigation to probe those involved in the insurrection and has clearly stated his intention to reject the appointments of three Constitutional Court judges".
Such actions, the motion said, are "in violation of a public official's duty to uphold the law... and serve the public".
If the opposition succeeds in its bid, South Korea will see its second impeachment of a head of state in less than two weeks, further destabilising its vibrant political scene.
It will also mark the first time South Korea has impeached an acting president.
Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok would step in as acting president in Han's place.
