In December of 2024, South Korea officially impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol. This was done after he declared martial law on December 3rd, then was repealed by the general assembly approximately six hours later on December 4th. Yoon has become South Korea’s first president who has been indicted while in office.
But why was Yoon prosecuted? President Yoon has been charged for inciting a rebellion and staging riots with the purpose of undermining the constitution. Yoon’s defense team lashed out, calling it “the worst decision” by prosecutors who they say are trying to gain favor with political forces who want Yoon’s exit. “Today’s indictment of the president will remain as a shame in the history of South Korean prosecutors that they cannot erase. We stress once again that a president’s declaration of martial law can never be a rebellion.” Yoon’s defense team said in a statement. Yoon has presidential immunity from most criminal prosecutions, but that privilege doesn’t extend to allegations of rebellion or treason.
For those who have been online in recent weeks might have seen the point of view of South Korea citizens who reside in Seoul, protesting the martial law. One of the main reasons these citizen-led protests were so publicized was due to the donations made by local Korean celebrities and idols. K-pop idols, such as IU who is known for her incredible singing and acting abilities, would donate pre-packaged food to predetermined locations for their fans who were participating in the protests. These idols were able to show their support for the cause even if they were unable to post or be present for support.
With the voices of the people and the celebrities ability to project their words, a two-thirds majority vote was passed in their legislature. Yoon’s abuse of power was recognized by the citizens of Korea, and through protests, and social media movement their congress was able to garner enough support to remove an unfit leader. So, why can’t other countries, including our own, use our resources to identify an abuse of power and remove unfit leaders?
Read this article to learn more on how our own impeachment failed:
https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/when-impeachment-fails
