South Korea’s main opposition party has announced plans to introduce a bill aimed at impeaching acting President Han Duck-soo. The Democratic Party warned that they would move to impeach Han if he did not quickly appoint three justices to fill vacancies on the Constitutional Court. Although Parliament approved three nominees on Thursday, Han has yet to formally appoint them. The court is currently addressing the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol following his martial law declaration on December 3. Democratic Party floor leader Park Chan-dae commented that Han lacks the qualifications and willingness to uphold the Constitution. Should Han be impeached, the finance minister would take over as acting president. The Democratic Party holds a majority in Parliament, but there is contention regarding whether a simple majority or a two-thirds vote is required for Han’s impeachment. Earlier on Thursday, Han stated that he would delay the justices’ appointments until the political parties reach a consensus, arguing that bypassing agreement would disrupt constitutional order. Despite mounting pressure, there is disagreement among the parties about Han’s authority to make the appointments. The court is scheduled to hold its first hearing on Friday to determine Yoon’s removal or reinstatement. According to the Constitution, six justices must concur to remove an impeached president, so current justices must vote unanimously against Yoon. Court Spokesperson Lee Jean noted in a media briefing that Yoon, impeached by Parliament on December 14 with votes from some members of his own party, has not yet submitted the required legal documents to the court. Yoon’s ongoing defiance has led to criticism and calls for his arrest from the opposition.
