South Korean lawmakers presented a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday after his highly criticized declaration of martial law, which he quickly rescinded following a tense standoff between parliament and the military.
This event has raised significant concerns about the country's political stability and its international reputation.
Yoon's late Tuesday decree aimed to ban political activities and impose media censorship in South Korea, Asia's fourth-largest economy and a key U.S. ally.
The decision blindsided Washington, with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken informing Reuters that no prior notice had been given. He added that he planned to discuss the matter with his South Korean counterpart in the coming days.
The declaration sparked immediate outrage. Armed troops briefly occupied the National Assembly in Seoul but were forced to retreat after parliamentary staff used fire extinguishers to block their advance.
Lawmakers swiftly nullified the martial law order as demonstrators clashed with police outside the parliament building.
On Wednesday evening, civic and labour groups held a candlelight vigil in downtown Seoul, demanding Yoon's resignation. The protests resembled the mass demonstrations that led to former President Park Geun-hye's impeachment in 2017. Protesters later marched to the presidential office.
In parliament, six opposition parties filed an impeachment motion against Yoon, accusing him of "authoritarian leadership." Even members of his own party have criticised his actions. A vote on the motion is anticipated by Friday or Saturday.
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