South Korea's government faced a significant constitutional crisis on Sunday as President Yoon Suk Yeol remained in office, despite indications from the leader of his own party that he had been effectively ousted. Yoon's public appearances have dwindled since he declared martial law last week, a decision that was met with widespread backlash.
Han Dong-hoon, chairman of the People Power Party (P.P.P.), has claimed authority over government decisions, asserting that Yoon is no longer in control. However, South Korea's Constitution stipulates that the president can only be replaced through resignation or impeachment.
A senior government source clarified that Yoon cannot cede power except through the legal processes outlined in the Constitution. On Sunday, Yoon exercised presidential duties by accepting the resignation of his home minister, Lee Sang-min.
Opposition groups criticized Han for overstepping his bounds, suggesting he was exploiting the power vacuum created by Yoon's controversial martial law declaration. Political analysts described the situation as chaotic, with a president unable to lead and a party leader attempting to consolidate power amid calls for Yoon's resignation or impeachment.
Yoon's martial law order was short-lived, lasting only six hours before the National Assembly voted against it. Following this, protests erupted, demanding his resignation. In a bid to stave off impeachment, Yoon apologized to the nation for his actions but did not resign, leaving his party to determine his future.
On Sunday, Han stated that Yoon must resign as he can no longer function as president, although he did not specify a timeline for this transition. He indicated that Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would manage government affairs in consultation with the P.P.P., acknowledging the constitutional requirement for the prime minister to assume interim leadership.
Opposition leaders accused Han of attempting an illegal power grab, with calls for Yoon's impeachment intensifying. They argued that the only legal means to remove Yoon from office is through impeachment, as he has not resigned.
Political commentators noted that Han's actions may be a strategy to delay impeachment for personal political gain, potentially improving his chances in a future election. The opposition has pledged to reintroduce impeachment proceedings as early as next Saturday.
The political turmoil has raised concerns about the command structure of South Korea's military, especially in light of ongoing tensions with North Korea. Experts have questioned whether Yoon, who remains the legal commander in chief, would be able to assert his authority if faced with a crisis.
As investigations into allegations of insurrection against Yoon's administration continue, the political landscape in South Korea remains precarious, with uncertainty about the leadership and governance of the nation.