2 Leaders Impeached in 3 Weeks as Turmoil Continues in South Korea

The crisis has rattled financial markets and disrupted Seoul's diplomacy efforts with partners like the U.S., all while the country's facing mounting economic challenges

South Korea's parliament impeached Acting President Han Duck-soo, dealing another blow to a government already reeling after President Yoon Suk Yeol's suspension less than two weeks ago for his brief martial law decree. Lawmakers voted 192-0 in favor of Prime Minister Han's impeachment on Friday, according to National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik.

He said before the vote that a simple majority in the 300-seat parliament was needed for the motion to pass, instead of the two-thirds required to suspend a president.

Dozens of ruling party members protested by chanting slogans calling for Woo's resignation and boycotting the vote. Han said in a statement that he would respect the National Assembly's decision and suspend his duties.

This is the first time an acting president has been impeached in South Korea. Han took over the role after Yoon was impeached by parliament following his December 3 decision to impose martial law, a move that was reversed six hours later.

The crisis has rattled financial markets and disrupted Seoul's diplomacy efforts with partners like the U.S., all while the country's facing mounting economic challenges and nuclear threats from North Korea.