South Korea’s National Assembly voted on Saturday to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol after his brief and controversial declaration of martial law.
The decision ended a political standoff but sparked debates over Yoon’s future, as large crowds gathered in celebration of the country’s democratic strength.
Lawmakers passed the impeachment motion by 204 votes to 85, suspending Yoon’s presidential authority.
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo took over interim leadership later in the day. The Constitutional Court has up to 180 days to decide whether Yoon will be permanently removed or reinstated.
If dismissed, a presidential election must be held within 60 days.
Yoon’s martial law order, issued earlier this month and quickly revoked, fueled public outrage and intensified calls for his removal.
A previous impeachment motion on December 7 failed when most lawmakers from Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP) walked out, preventing a quorum. the motion. So far, seven PPP lawmakers have publicly backed impeachment.
Authorities have also imposed a travel ban on Yoon as part of an ongoing investigation.