The leader of South Korea’s main opposition party, Lee Jae-myung, expressed doubts about securing enough votes from the ruling party to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol over his recent declaration of martial law. In an interview with Bloomberg, Lee acknowledged the challenging political landscape ahead of the parliamentary vote.
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Impeachment Prospects Uncertain
Lee’s Democratic Party holds a majority in the legislature but requires at least eight votes from Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP) to initiate impeachment proceedings. Lee admitted that while some ruling party lawmakers might personally support impeachment, defying their party line presents a significant obstacle. This political calculus complicates the effort to remove President Yoon.
The situation remains fluid, especially after PPP leader Han Dong-hoon announced his opposition to the impeachment motion and requested Yoon’s resignation from the party. This move could further isolate the president, even if he avoids impeachment. Despite the uncertainty, Lee affirmed his commitment to pursuing Yoon’s removal, regardless of the initial vote outcome.
Allegations of Treason and Constitutional Crisis
The Democratic Party accuses President Yoon of treason following his attempt to impose martial law, a decision that surprised the nation, his own party, and international allies like the US. Lee asserted that impeachment is inevitable, the only question being the timeline. He emphasized the damage Yoon’s actions inflicted on South Korea’s reputation, calling the president’s behavior “abnormal and incomprehensible.”
Lee recounted his personal experience during the crisis, describing how he scaled a fence to enter the National Assembly after police blocked access following the martial law decree. Lawmakers ultimately rejected the measure, leading Yoon to rescind the order.
Political Implications and Future Leadership
Both Lee and Han are potential contenders to succeed Yoon if he steps down. However, Lee faces potential disqualification from politics due to a recent court conviction for violating election laws. Despite this, his party’s landslide victory in the April parliamentary elections has bolstered his political standing.
Han’s opposition to impeachment could solidify his party’s conservative base while distancing it from the embattled president. He emphasized his disapproval of Yoon’s actions, stating his commitment to the public’s outrage over the unconstitutional martial law declaration.
Upcoming Vote and Potential Outcomes
The opposition aims to hold the impeachment vote on Saturday. The PPP’s strategy to prevent its members from supporting the opposition remains unclear. Possible tactics include a mass boycott of the session. Lee suggested that even an initial failure wouldn’t be definitive, as public pressure could sway lawmakers in future votes.
Meanwhile, President Yoon appointed a new defense minister, Choi Byung-hyuk, replacing Kim Yong-hyun, who reportedly ordered troops to the National Assembly during the martial law vote. This move suggests Yoon’s determination to remain in office.
Broader Geopolitical Perspectives
In the interview, Lee also addressed broader geopolitical issues:
US Protectionism: Lee acknowledged the global structural changes and the US’s preemptive actions, suggesting South Korea should respond strategically rather than judging the US’s decisions.
Diplomacy with Japan: Lee emphasized the importance of mutual respect and benefit in fostering positive international relations. He cautioned against frequent meetings in a “predatory relationship.”
Arms to Ukraine: Lee expressed concern over calls for South Korea to provide lethal weapons or troops to Ukraine, stating his position to prevent such actions.
The impeachment vote looms large, with the potential to reshape South Korea’s political landscape and determine the future of President Yoon Suk Yeol’s presidency.
