Yoon Suk Yeol faces plummeting approval ratings ahead of impeachment vote

In South Korea, significant public unrest has emerged in response to President Yoon Suk Yeol's recent declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024. This controversial move angered citizens across various age groups, especially young women and teenage girls, who have actively participated in protests. Many expressed fears of losing personal freedoms and voiced strong support for the impeachment of Yoon Suk Yeol, which eventually gained traction in the National Assembly. As a result, the popularity of Yoon Suk Yeol has plummeted, culminating in an alarming 11% approval rating just before a second impeachment motion against him was voted on by lawmakers. The protests gained momentum with the announcement of martial law, which was quickly overturned by the National Assembly hours later. Demonstrators took to the streets of Seoul, gathering near the National Assembly to express their demands for Yoon's removal from office, while the cold weather did not deter massive turnout. Among the demonstrators, many young people voiced concerns about the implications of Yoon's actions on democracy and human rights. There was a pervasive sentiment that his administration lacked the trust and respect of the citizens, further fueling the rallying cry for change. Yoon has previously faced skepticism about his leadership, but his martial law declaration marked a critical turning point. The fallout of this decision showcased the growing divide between the South Korean populace and their leaders, particularly regarding issues of governance, civil liberties, and gender equality, seen as particularly pressing under Yoon’s controversial rulership. In a striking indication of the shifting political landscape, more voices emerged within the ruling People Power Party favoring the impeachment. Lawmakers within the party began to reconsider their backing for Yoon, reflecting broader discontent that mirrored public sentiment. As the opposition prepared for the decisive impeachment vote, it was evident that the public's frustration had reached a peak. The Democratic Party, which has led the opposition efforts, rallied support for a vote that required a two-thirds majority. In the backdrop of these political maneuvers, the ongoing protests exemplified a broader struggle among the youth for democracy and representation in their government, indicating a significant cultural and social shift in South Korea. Ultimately, the culmination of these events led to a historic moment in South Korea's democratic processes, with the country grappling with the implications of leadership accountability.