South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has vowed to “fight to the end” despite facing impeachment proceedings, claiming he will not step down ahead of a vote on Saturday. The president, who declared martial law last week, said his decision was made to protect democracy and prevent its collapse.
Yoon faces investigations on insurrection charges and is banned from leaving the country. Opponents have voted to impeach police chief Cho Ji-ho and justice minister Park Sung-jae, with more impeachment motions expected this weekend. If successful, a trial by the Constitutional Court would determine Yoon’s fate.
The opposition-led parliament voted to impeach two officials, unlike previous impeachment motions which require 200 votes. The president and his allies are facing multiple investigations on charges of insurrection and treason. Ex-defence minister Kim Yong-hyun attempted suicide while in detention, but is in stable condition.
Yoon’s party had hoped he would leave office early, but now urges members to vote to remove him from office this Saturday. A trial by the Constitutional Court would require two-thirds majority for Yoon to be removed permanently if impeached. The country remains on edge, with huge protests and strikes calling for Yoon’s impeachment.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gp8p875g8o