Time for People Power's Choice... Must Make a Decision for Political Integration

If Prolonged, Major Blow to Korean Economy
Need to Consider New Framework Beyond Presidential System

Now, a choice remains. It is time to decide whether to resolve the crisis that nearly toppled the constitutional order or to descend into greater chaos that could lead to collapse. The key lies in the hands of the ruling party lawmakers.

On the 13th, the entire nation trembles in turmoil. Wherever people gather, they worry about the country. Since the imposition of martial law on the night of the 3rd, citizens have lost their daily lives. Amid their livelihoods, they had to divert their attention to the unfolding news every moment. The support pillar called the ‘state,’ which upheld daily life, has collapsed, causing anxiety. On frosty winter nights, citizens took to the streets. In various places, they issued their own declarations on the state of affairs, expressing concern for the country.

On the 13th, one day before the second impeachment vote of President Yoon Seok-yeol, the main building of the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, was covered by thick clouds. Korean politics stands at a crossroads ahead of the second impeachment vote. Photo by Jo Yong-jun

The economic situation, which was already poor before martial law, is worsening. While citizens shrink in fear, the year-end special demand has disappeared, and the domestic economy has dried up. The world’s gaze toward Korea has also turned cold. Trust in Korea, which prided itself as an advanced democratic country, has hit rock bottom. After the crisis, Korean politics has shown resilience in democracy but also revealed a lack of problem-solving ability.

The ruling party keeps postponing the decision, repeating phrases like "We need time to think" and "Please allow us to manage the situation." They cite trauma from impeachment but likely do not want to lose their stronghold as the ruling party. However, the choice the ruling party wants to avoid is the ‘path to a new beginning.’ Because the People Power Party lawmakers hesitate, the voting outcome remains uncertain. So far, only seven ruling party lawmakers have explicitly expressed support for impeachment. To impeach the president, a two-thirds majority of the total members is required, meaning one more defection is needed. However, voices call for a more overwhelming approval of the impeachment bill for the sake of Korean society. Political unity is what can reduce national chaos. What is clear is that if the ruling party lawmakers make up their minds, the crisis can be overcome.

If this situation prolongs, not only the Korean economy but also trust in Korea will be damaged. Professor Lee Jun-han of the Department of Political Science at Incheon National University predicted, "If the impeachment bill is rejected again on the 14th, the time on the streets will lengthen." The longer the street protests continue, the lower the possibility of the revival of Korea’s conservative parties. Citizens will label the ruling party, which delays the decision, as ‘accomplices to insurrection’ and demand its dissolution. Kim Sang-wook, a People Power Party lawmaker who declared support for impeachment, appealed for approval at the main gate of the National Assembly, saying, "If we cannot sincerely apologize to the people now, I believe the future of conservatism will be dark."

Professor Kang Won-taek of the Department of Political Science at Seoul National University said, "If impeachment happens again, the presidential system should be considered to have reached its end." With the conclusion of the imperial presidential system guaranteeing a five-year term confirmed, a new political order in Korea can be established. If a ‘decision’ is made, a ticket to participate in reform will be granted.