South Korea’s Political Crisis: Constitutional Stability and Governance

• South Korea has transitioned from a military dictatorship to a pro-business democracy, but has also faced corruption, power abuse, and political vendetta.

• The impeachment of acting President Han Duck-soo exemplifies the political system’s vulnerabilities.

• The opposition Democratic Party took control of the National Assembly, leading to a chasm between the presidency and the National Assembly.

• Yoon declared martial law, triggering protests and the impeachment of President Han.

• The dispute revolved around Han’s refusal to appoint three judges to all vacancies at the Constitutional Court.

• The opposition accused Han of delaying the constitutional process, while Han and the ruling People’s Power Party argued that only an elected President has the powers to sign appointments.

• The political and constitutional crisis is expected to persist, exacerbated by economic and security challenges.

• The new acting President should strive for consensus on appointments to the Constitutional Court and expedite the impeachment proceedings against President Yoon.