In a dramatic culmination of political unrest, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been impeached following his controversial martial law declaration.

The National Assembly's decision to impeach Yoon marks a historic third attempt to remove him from office, as the Washington Examiner reports.

Amid severe political paralysis caused by the opposition, Yoon declared martial law, a move that had not been seen in South Korea for over four decades.

His assertion that the drastic measure was necessary came as the country faced increasing unrest.

South Korea's Reaction to Martial Law

The imposition of martial law led to widespread panic among civilians and significant disruptions across the nation's financial markets.

This unrest was exacerbated by fears of an authoritarian regression in a nation with a history of military rule.

The martial law period was brief, however, ending swiftly when opposition members convened an emergency session in Parliament to terminate the decree.

Following the upheaval, President Yoon faced the National Assembly where his impeachment was finalized on the third vote, a historic event, given previous failed attempts.

Han Duck-soo Takes Charge

With President Yoon suspended from his duties, the role of interim president fell to Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Han has promised to dedicate his efforts to ensure stability and continuity in government operations during this turbulent period.

Among President Yoon's party members, twelve voted in favor of his impeachment, signifying deep divisions within his administration over the handling of the crisis.

The streets of Seoul witnessed scenes of celebration as protesters, relieved by the removal of President Yoon, expressed their approval of the impeachment. Many viewed this as a pivotal moment for democracy in South Korea.

Yoon Vows to Fight Impeachment in Court

Despite being ousted, President Yoon remains defiant, vowing to challenge the impeachment in the Constitutional Court. His statement, "I will never give up," highlights his determination to either return to office or fight the decision to the end.

On the international stage, the U.S. ambassador to South Korea, Philip S. Goldberg, reassured the public that the U.S.-South Korea relationship would withstand the political upheaval.

He emphasized the unshaken alliance and ongoing communication with the current government.

Ambassador Goldberg further reinforced the U.S. commitment to peace and security in the region, reflecting on discussions with the South Korean Foreign Minister to maintain a strong bilateral alliance.

Opposition and Public Sentiment Post-Impeachment

Members of the opposition, while pleased with the outcome, remain cautious about the road ahead. Lee Jae-myung, a prominent opposition figure, noted that while a small obstacle has been overcome, a larger challenge looms on the horizon.

Voices from the street, like Kim Myoung-sook, expressed personal relief and broader societal implications, stating, "Martial law is a declaration of war on the people," and celebrating the impeachment as a crucial victory for the nation.

As the country navigates these uncertain times, Park Chan-dae encapsulated the sentiment of many South Koreans, celebrating the impeachment as "a victory for the South Korean people and for democracy."