Arirang Culture Connect- Seoul | December 14, 2024
December 14, 2024, Pro-impeachment demonstrators celebrating after the impeachment was passed in the National Assembly
In a historic decision, the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol was passed in the National Assembly on December 14. The move comes just 11 days after the controversial December 3 martial law incident, which saw the use of military and police forces in what has been described as an insurrection attempt. This marks the beginning of formal constitutional procedures to address the crisis.
The impeachment resolution was put to a vote during the plenary session, where all 300 lawmakers participated. The motion passed with 204 votes in favor, 85 against, 3 abstentions, and 8 invalid votes. Notably, despite the People Power Party's official opposition to the impeachment, 12 defections from the party contributed to the outcome.
This historic decision underscores the power of the people to resist authoritarian governance. President Yoon’s attempt to impose martial law was widely criticized as an anti-democratic measure, but citizens across the nation rose in solidarity to defend constitutional democracy. Through sustained protests, the people successfully halted the authoritarian use of force and sent a powerful message that no leader can override the will of the sovereign citizenry.
A key factor in the impeachment outcome was the public's vocal condemnation of ruling party lawmakers who prioritized political loyalty over the nation’s interests. Citizens issued a strong warning to lawmakers, demanding they represent the will of the people rather than their party’s agenda. Public pressure ultimately led to the passing of the impeachment motion, demonstrating the power of grassroots democracy.
The Role of Young Women and K-Pop in a Peaceful Revolution
One of the most remarkable aspects of the protests leading up to the impeachment was the active participation of young women in their teens and twenties. Despite having no lived experience of past authoritarian regimes, this younger generation took a leading role in organizing and mobilizing demonstrations. Utilizing K-Pop culture and social media platforms, they created a vibrant and inclusive protest atmosphere that transcended generational divides. This dynamic and peaceful movement showcased a new form of civic engagement where music, culture, and democracy intersected to amplify the people’s voices.
A Global Testament to South Korea’s Democratic Maturity
The impeachment process and the peaceful resistance led by citizens reaffirm the fundamental principle that sovereignty resides with the people. No political leader, regardless of their position, can suppress the will of the people. This moment stands as a testament to South Korea’s matured democracy, sending a powerful message to the global community: that democracy thrives when citizens hold their leaders accountable and remain steadfast in upholding democratic values.
Young protesters supporting the impeachment around the National Assembly in Yeouido are leading a new wave of protest culture, utilizing K-Pop as a key element.
Following the vote, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik formally delivered the impeachment resolution to Jeong Cheong-rae, Chair of the Legislation and Judiciary Committee, who will serve as the impeachment manager. Copies were simultaneously sent to the Constitutional Court and the Presidential Office. Effective immediately, President Yoon’s powers are suspended, with his role limited to holding his title and privileges until the Constitutional Court renders a decision.
This impeachment comes 949 days into President Yoon’s term (approximately 2 years and 7 months). The Constitutional Court is now tasked with reviewing the case and must reach a conclusion within 180 days. Should the impeachment be upheld, President Yoon will follow former President Park Geun-hye (2016) as the second South Korean leader to be removed through impeachment in the nation’s constitutional history. If Yoon is ousted, a presidential election will be held within 60 days to elect a successor.
Thousands of citizens participated in candlelight protests across the nation leading up to the vote, calling for accountability and adherence to democratic principles. These events highlight not only the people’s unyielding commitment to democracy but also the innovative and inclusive ways in which they mobilized.
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