Iron Grip of Power : South Korea Descends Into Chaos Under President's Martial Law

On December 4, 2024, at 4:30 AM KST with only six hours of enforcement, the martial law was lifted by unanimous vote by the parliament. On December 14, 2024, The National Assembly was able to pass Yoon's Impeachment motion, The National Assembly charged Yoon with treason and rebellion. The vote result was 204-85 with 204 agreeing and 85 voting against, because of this motion Yoon was suspended from office and was temporarily displaced by Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Mr. Yoon's impeachment was met by a celebration by protesters outside the parliament building indicating the broad public support for removing Yoon as South Korea's president and public unhappiness with his administration.

On January 15, 2025, Yoon was officially under arrest, marking the first-ever sitting president in South Korea to undergo this kind of legal measure. His imprisonment has been extended due to prosecutors preparing potential charges, which may lead to severe penalties if he is found guilty. The Constitutional Court has until June 2025 to decide on Yoon's impeachment. Although, experts are anticipating that a decision may be issued sooner, considering the urgency of the situation.