South Korean lawmakers impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol on Saturday, following his controversial attempt to impose martial law earlier this month.
The decision, described by opposition leaders as a "victory of the people," came amid massive protests in Seoul, where hundreds of thousands rallied both for and against Yoon.
In a decisive vote, 204 members of the National Assembly supported the impeachment, while 85 opposed it. Three lawmakers abstained and eight votes were nullified.
This impeachment suspends Yoon from his presidential duties as South Korea's Constitutional Court considers the matter, with a ruling expected within 180 days. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has stepped in as the interim leader during this period.
The impeachment stems from Yoon's declaration of martial law on December 3, which was swiftly rescinded after parliament rejected it. This marked a significant political upheaval in South Korea, with opposition parties asserting that Yoon's actions constituted insurrection.
Opposition Democratic Party floor leader Park Chan-dae emphasized that the impeachment was essential to uphold democracy and the rule of law.
As the vote unfolded, police reported that at least 200,000 demonstrators gathered outside parliament advocating for Yoon's removal, while around 30,000 supporters rallied nearby in his defense.
Many supporters expressed unwavering loyalty to Yoon, despite his plummeting approval ratings, which have dropped to just 11 percent according to recent polls.
Yoon has remained defiant in the face of mounting pressure, alleging that opposition forces are colluding with North Korea and framing his martial law declaration as necessary for national security.
