South Korea’s acting president, Han Duck-soo, moved swiftly to reassure international allies and calm financial markets following the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol over his controversial martial law attempt.
Han’s elevation to acting president comes as Yoon’s impeachment case heads to the Constitutional Court, which has six months to decide whether to remove or reinstate him.
In a phone call with US President Joe Biden, Han pledged to maintain stability in foreign and security policies and reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to the alliance with the United States.
“South Korea will carry out its foreign and security policies without disruption and strive to ensure the South Korea-US alliance is maintained and developed steadfastly,” Han said in a statement.
The White House echoed Han’s sentiments, with Biden expressing confidence in South Korea’s democratic resilience and the strength of the bilateral alliance.
President Yoon’s impeachment on December 3 followed his surprise declaration of martial law, a move that shocked the nation and its allies. The crisis spooked financial markets and raised concerns about South Korea’s ability to address regional security challenges, including the ongoing threat from nuclear-armed North Korea.
In a bid to stabilise the political situation, opposition Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung announced that his party would not seek to impeach Han, despite his involvement in Yoon’s martial law decision.
“Excessive impeachment could lead to confusion in national governance,” Lee said, emphasising the need for stability.
Han, a veteran technocrat and Yoon’s pick for prime minister, convened his cabinet and National Security Council immediately after the impeachment vote. He vowed to maintain military readiness and ensure that national security remains uncompromised during the transition.
The Constitutional Court’s ruling on Yoon’s impeachment will determine whether South Korea heads to a snap presidential election within 60 days. In the meantime, Han’s leadership is being closely scrutinized as the nation navigates this unprecedented political turmoil.
The impeachment has raised questions about South Korea’s political stability, but Han’s reassurances to allies and his swift actions have helped temper immediate concerns. Market observers and diplomatic partners are closely monitoring the situation as the country strives to maintain domestic and regional stability.
The US has reiterated its unwavering support for South Korea, with Biden expressing optimism about the country’s democratic institutions and rule of law.
The unfolding events mark a critical moment for South Korea as it seeks to balance internal political challenges with its role as a key player in the Indo-Pacific region.
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