The Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), South Korea’s main opposition party, has introduced a second impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk Yeol and plans to hold a re-vote on December 14.

On December 12, the DPK formally submitted the new impeachment motion, which was originally slated for December 11. However, revelations during committee sessions in the National Assembly, including the National Defense and Judiciary Committees, prompted the party to delay the filing to strengthen its case.

The re-vote on the impeachment motion is scheduled for 5 PM on December 14. Notably, some members of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) have expressed their intention to participate in the vote, with a few even signaling support for the impeachment—a significant shift in the political landscape.

During the first impeachment vote on December 7, PPP lawmakers collectively walked out of the session, except for three members—Ahn Cheol Soo, Kim Yae. Ji, and Kim Sang Wook—who cast votes. Despite 195 lawmakers participating, the motion failed to meet the 200-vote threshold required for passage, resulting in its automatic dismissal.

Following the initial vote, public criticism grew against PPP lawmakers who abstained from voting. Meanwhile, the political environment surrounding President Yoon has shifted, with PPP members such as Bae Hyun Jin, Kim Jae Seop, and Han Ji Ah now reportedly planning to participate in the next vote.

While participation from PPP lawmakers does not guarantee their support for impeachment, an increasing number of them have publicly expressed support. PPP leader Han Dong Hoon has also advocated for endorsing the impeachment motion, urging party members to follow their conscience and participate.

At a press conference, Han remarked, "President Yoon has made it clear that he has no intention of stepping down early despite our party’s demands. This goes against his earlier pledge to prioritize the nation’s stability and to entrust decisions regarding his term to the party. Therefore, immediate suspension of his duties is necessary to prevent further chaos." Han proposed adopting impeachment as the party’s official stance.

For the impeachment motion to pass, at least eight ruling party members must vote in favor, assuming all opposition lawmakers support the motion.

Presidential Response and Political Implications

President Yoon delivered a televised address on December 12, marking his second public statement since the December 3 repeal of martial law. The 30-minute speech criticized the DPK and defended his actions, including the controversial declaration of martial law. Yoon stated, "The opposition party has repeatedly abused its constitutional powers, but I have adhered to my presidential duties within the constitutional framework."

The speech is expected to galvanize conservative supporters while further alienating PPP members who favored an orderly transition rather than impeachment. Yoon asserted, "Whether through impeachment or investigation, I will face it head-on," signaling his firm refusal to resign voluntarily. This declaration could sway ruling party lawmakers, some of whom had previously advocated for Yoon’s resignation to avoid political instability, to now support impeachment.

New Testimonies and Allegations

Recent testimonies regarding Yoon’s role during the declaration of martial law have added to the controversy. Kwak Jong Keun, the former commander of Special Warfare Command during the period, testified in a National Assembly session that Yoon had instructed him to "break down the doors and remove those inside" when quorum for a National Assembly session could not be met. Kwak refused to carry out the order, citing ethical concerns.

Prime Minister Han Duck Soo also acknowledged procedural flaws during a Cabinet meeting preceding the martial law declaration, describing it as an attempt to allow dissenting voices to prevent the move. These revelations could bolster allegations of insurrection against Yoon. To prove insurrection, prosecutors must demonstrate that the actions were intended to disrupt constitutional order and involved violent means.

In his speech, Yoon dismissed these allegations, calling them 'groundless propaganda' and defending martial law as a "constitutional decision and a governing act, not insurrection."

Outlook for the Re-vote

With impeachment proceedings set for December 14, the political environment has significantly shifted compared to the initial vote. While the opposition remains steadfast, growing dissent within the ruling party and public dissatisfaction with Yoon’s leadership increase the likelihood of a different outcome this time.

SEE ALSO: K-netizens respond to President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law defense