South Korea: Opposition tries to convince deputies to vote for impeachment of the president on Saturday

Seven PPP deputies have already declared support for the dismissal. That suggests a close vote, with an estimated “99%” chance of approval, according to opposition lawmaker Kim Min-seok.

If approved, Yoon will be suspended pending the Constitutional Court’s decision. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will take over on an interim basis, while the Court has up to 180 days to make its decision.

Yoon could face criminal liability even without dismissal. Researcher Kim Hyun-jung says his coup attempt is seen as an “act of rebellion”.

The president faces a growing political crisis in South Korea. Since his failed attempt to impose martial law, thousands have protested in Seoul calling for his resignation.

Yoon’s popularity fell to 11% according to a Gallup poll. Furthermore, 75% of those interviewed support his dismissal.

The protests include a wide range of South Korean society. From young K-pop fans to retirees who lived under military dictatorship in the 1980s, they are taking to the streets demanding change.