South Korean opposition postpones impeachment plan against acting President Han

South Korea’s opposition party has delayed its plan to impeach Acting President Han Duck-soo. The decision comes as the country faces political turmoil following President Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed attempt to impose martial law earlier this month.

Opposition postpones impeachment plan

On Tuesday, South Korea’s main opposition party, the Democratic Party (DP), announced its intention to impeach Acting President Han Duck-soo. However, the party later decided to postpone submitting the impeachment bill until later in the week. DP floor leader Park Chan-dae explained that the delay was to allow more time to assess the political situation. The DP, which holds a majority in parliament, had initially planned to introduce the impeachment bill immediately.

The push for impeachment stems from Han’s decision to delay signing a law that would appoint a special counsel to investigate President Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed bid to declare martial law on December 3. Yoon’s powers were suspended on December 14 after parliament voted to impeach him. The DP accuses Han of siding with Yoon and acting against the will of the people.

If the impeachment bill is submitted, it must be voted on within 24 to 72 hours. If Han is impeached, the finance minister will become the next acting president under South Korean law. Currently, Han has been serving as acting president while the Constitutional Court reviews whether Yoon should be permanently removed from office or reinstated.

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Opposition and Government clash

The DP claims that Acting President Han is deliberately delaying the special counsel investigation. At a recent cabinet meeting, Han reportedly stated that he would not approve the law. This refusal has led to accusations from the DP that Han is stalling for time. “Han’s actions clearly show he is not willing to uphold the people’s demands,” Park Chan-dae said.

The DP has also passed bills this month to investigate President Yoon on charges of insurrection and allegations against his wife related to luxury goods. Meanwhile, Han’s office called the impeachment move “highly regrettable” and warned that it could damage South Korea’s international reputation and economy. According to an unnamed official, “The international community supports the acting president system. Impeachment could weaken this trust.”

The ruling People Power Party (PPP), which supports Yoon, has criticized the DP for trying to destabilize the government. The PPP argues that impeachment during a time of diplomatic talks with allies like the United States is irresponsible.

President Yoon has remained out of the public eye since his impeachment. On December 14, he made a televised statement but has not appeared in person since. His lawyer, Seok Dong-hyeon, revealed that Yoon is focusing on the Constitutional Court trial. Yoon is also avoiding questioning by investigators about his martial law attempt. His team says he is prioritizing the legal process over public appearances.

South Korea’s political crisis has sparked protests and debates across the nation. Demonstrators have criticized both the opposition and the government for escalating tensions. The coming days will determine whether the DP moves forward with Han’s impeachment and how the Constitutional Court handles Yoon’s case. For now, uncertainty continues to loom over South Korea’s leadership and future.