South Korea's political landscape is in turmoil following President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief declaration of martial law. Opposition parties are initiating impeachment proceedings, accusing the president of an "unconstitutional power grab." They are pushing for a parliamentary vote as early as Saturday, citing the martial law declaration as a dangerous precedent.

President Yoon's unexpected martial law decree on Tuesday night sent shockwaves through the nation and among its allies. Although the parliament swiftly overturned the declaration just hours later, the political fallout continues. Widespread protests have erupted in Seoul, with demonstrators demanding Yoon's resignation and a thorough investigation into his actions.

Securing the two-thirds majority needed for impeachment requires support from some members of Yoon's own People Power Party (PPP). While opposition parties hold 192 seats, the PPP controls 108, making their participation crucial for the impeachment motion to succeed.

Adding fuel to the fire, PPP leader Han Dong-hun has called for the immediate suspension of Yoon's presidential powers. He expressed concerns about the president's potential for "extreme actions," including another attempt at imposing martial law, which he believes could jeopardize the nation's safety and stability. Han claims to have intelligence suggesting Yoon ordered the arrests of political figures on charges of "anti-state activities" during the brief period of martial law.

It is worth noting that Han leads a minority faction within the PPP, and 18 lawmakers from his group sided with the opposition to revoke Yoon's martial law decree. This internal division further complicates the political situation.

If impeached, President Yoon would be suspended from his duties while the Constitutional Court deliberates on whether to permanently remove him from office or reinstate his powers.

Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung has emphasized the urgency of suspending Yoon, characterizing the martial law declaration as an act of "rebellion" and a "self-coup." He highlighted the international repercussions of Yoon's actions, citing criticism from the Biden administration and the cancellation of diplomatic visits to South Korea.

President Yoon has remained silent in response to these developments, making no public appearances since announcing the lifting of martial law.