Acting President of South Korea, Han Duck-soo held a telephonic conversation with U.S. President Joe Biden on December 15, following impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol over an attempt to impose martial law earlier this month.
Biden reaffirmed the “ironclad” U.S.-South Korea alliance, while Han emphasized maintaining military readiness against provocations by North Korea. Both leaders vowed to strengthen bilateral ties amid the ongoing challenges.
The National Assembly voted on December 14 to impeach Yoon, plunging the country into political uncertainty. Han, previously serving as prime minister, assumed the role of acting president as per the constitution while the Constitutional Court deliberates on Yoon’s impeachment.
“We will ensure the South Korea-U.S. alliance remains steadfast and continue to pursue stable foreign and security policies,” Han said in a statement.
Opposition offers cooperation
In a move to ease tensions, the Democratic Party, led by Lee Jae-myung, announced it would not seek to impeach Han despite Yoon’s controversial actions.
“Considering that excessive impeachments could lead to governance confusion, we have decided not to proceed with impeachment procedures,” Lee said.
He urged the Constitutional Court to expedite its ruling on Yoon’s impeachment and proposed establishing a special council for policy cooperation between parliament and the government.
Legal and public pressure mounts
Yoon faces potential charges of insurrection, abuse of authority, and obstructing rights. Prosecutors revealed he failed to appear for questioning on Sunday and announced plans to issue another summons.
Public unrest remains high, with around 200,000 demonstrators gathering outside the National Assembly building on the day of Yoon’s impeachment, according to police. Protests began following Yoon’s martial law declaration on December 3, which was quickly countered by opposition and public outcry.
The Constitutional Court has up to six months to decide Yoon’s fate. If removed, new elections must be held within 60 days.
Who is Han Duck-soo?
Han, 75, brought decades of experience to his role as acting president. He has held key positions under five presidents, including roles as finance minister, ambassador to the U.S., and trade minister. Described as rational and hardworking, Han’s expertise spans economics, trade, and diplomacy.
“He has served in key posts solely based on his skills and expertise, irrespective of political factions,” Yoon remarked upon appointing Han as prime minister in 2022. Han’s reputation as a moderate leader with a Harvard doctorate in economics made him a trusted figure in South Korean politics.