Impeachment Battle Heats Up: Opposition Leader Lee Jae-myung Takes a Stand

Following President Yoon Suk Yeol's controversial martial law declaration, opposition leader Lee Jae-myung mobilizes public support to impeach him. Despite an initial failed attempt, Lee vows to persist in his fight for democracy, emphasizing the growing backing for his cause among South Koreans.

Shortly after President Yoon Suk Yeol invoked martial law last Tuesday, Lee Jae-myung, the leader of South Korea’s opposition party, initiated a dramatic response. Streaming from his cellphone, he urged citizens to assemble at the National Assembly, rallying them to protect it from military intervention. “You must protect the Assembly, the last line of defense for our democracy,” he implored, contributing to a significant public mobilization that ultimately halted the president’s decree within six hours.

Mr. Lee, currently embroiled in legal disputes he claims are politically charged, sees this moment as a strategic turning point in his political career. With his Democratic Party commanding the majority in the Assembly, he reflects the prevalent public sentiment favoring President Yoon's removal. Current polls indicate that if an election were held today, Lee would emerge as the favored candidate.

In a week marked by chaos, Mr. Lee appeared resolute and collected, his determination to expedite President Yoon’s ousting evident. However, a parliamentary vote aiming for Yoon’s impeachment on Saturday fell through when the ruling party opted to boycott the proceedings. Unfazed, Lee has announced plans for continuous impeachment voting sessions every Saturday, stating, “We will keep doing this until he is impeached.” He expresses hope for a resolution by Christmas, buoyed by the increasing public support and commitment to his cause.