South Korea Crisis Continues As Opposition Threatens Acting President Han With Impeachment Over Special Counsel Delay

South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party has warned acting President Han Duck-soo of impeachment if he fails to proclaim legislation to launch a special counsel investigation into impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol by Tuesday (24 December).

Han assumed the role of acting president after President Yoon was impeached on 14 December. The Constitutional Court is currently reviewing whether to permanently remove Yoon from office.

The Democratic Party, which holds a parliamentary majority, passed a bill to appoint a special counsel to investigate charges of insurrection against Yoon. The probe would also cover allegations against Yoon's wife over a luxury bag scandal.

The party accused Han of complicity in Yoon's alleged attempt to impose martial law, claiming he had "no intention of complying with the constitution."

Democratic Party floor leader Park Chan-dae stated, “The delays show that the prime minister has no intention of complying with the constitution, and it is tantamount to admitting that he is acting as a proxy for the insurgent.”

The Democratic Party also alleged that Han’s inaction reflects his alignment with Yoon. They have reported him to the police for aiding the martial law attempt and vowed to “immediately initiate impeachment proceedings” if the bill is not promulgated.

Han, a seasoned technocrat with over 30 years of experience in South Korean politics, was appointed as prime minister by Yoon in 2022. His office has not commented on the matter, though he previously stated that he tried to prevent Yoon’s martial law declaration but apologized for his failure.

The opposition also accused Yoon of obstructing the Constitutional Court trial. “Any delay in the investigation and impeachment trials is an extension of the insurrection and an act of plotting a second one,” Park claimed.

Authorities have faced challenges in investigating Yoon. Police and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials have twice attempted to raid Yoon's office but were denied entry by the presidential security service.

Investigation chief Woo Jong-soo confirmed efforts to preserve evidence, including a secure phone server. Another attempt to question Yoon is scheduled for 25 December.