Record-Breaking Impasse in South Korea Over Former President Yoon's Impeachment
Thousands rally in South Korea, both supporting and opposing the deposed president. - Protestors for and against the ousted South Korean president rally in enormous numbers
The current standoff between supporters and opponents of ex-President Yoon over his reinstatement, due to the Constitutional Court's drawn-out decision, has raised concerns among Yoon's detractors. For Yoon to be kept out of office, at least six of the eight Constitutional justices must agree to his impeachment. This deliberation saga is the longest in the court's history.
Back in December, the National Assembly in Seoul decided to oust Yoon from the presidential seat, and the Prosecutor's Office launched investigations against him. After his arrest in January, Yoon was detained for several weeks before a court lifted his arrest warrant in early March, creating doubts about the legitimacy of these proceedings against him.
To quell accusations of questionable procedures, this move was deemed "necessary" by the court. Once the Prosecutor's Office declined to challenge the decision, Yoon was granted his freedom.
Insights:
- The record-breaking duration of this deliberation has exceeded both Park Geun-hye's and Roh Moo-hyun's cases, decision periods that concluded in just two weeks and a month, respectively.
- The delay could potentially reflect disagreements among the justices or their quest for a unanimous decision to diminish social division.
- The outcome of the impeachment ruling will shape South Korea's political landscape significantly. The country might need to hold new presidential elections within 60 days if Yoon's impeachment is upheld.
- The Constitutional Court recently dismissed the impeachment of Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who served as acting president during Yoon's suspension.
In the midst of this political maelstrom, Acting President Han has resumed his role, attempting to stabilize the tumultuous government. The ruling on Yoon's impeachment will have far-reaching consequences for South Korea's political future.
- Despite the prolonged deliberations over ex-President Yoon's impeachment, thousands of South Koreans have been expressing agreement for a long time, believing his removal is essential for the country's political stability.
- The European Council, recognizing the importance of employment policy in times of political turmoil, has emphasized the need for a clear and swift decision on Yoon's impeachment to prevent further employment policy instability.
- controversies surrounding Yoon's arrest and detention have raised questions about the effectiveness of the existing employment policy in preventing power abuse and ensuring fair justice, sparking calls for a comprehensive review and amendments.
