South Korean MPs have begun impeachment proceedings against President Yoon Suk Yeol after thwarting his shock move to impose martial law
The president had said martial law was needed to protect the country from “North Korea’s communist forces” and to “eliminate anti-state elements”
Though he cited North Korea, President Yoon’s decision was seen as a response to domestic pressure and a series of scandals
Less than two hours after his declaration, MPs forced their way into the National Assembly and voted to block his decision – some broke through barricades to enter the building; one MP told the BBC protesters helped him climb over a wall
After the assembly vote, President Yoon announced he was reversing his martial law decision
MPs will now vote on his impeachment in the coming days – if they approve it, Yoon will face trial at a constitutional court
