Biden Stresses to South Korea's Acting President: U.S.-South Korea Alliance Key to Indo-Pacific Peace | WPN World People News

U.S. President Biden Affirms Strong U.S.-South Korea Alliance in Call with Acting President Han Duck-soo

On December 14, U.S. President Joe Biden held a phone call with South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, emphasizing the unwavering strength of the U.S.-South Korea alliance. Following the impeachment of South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol by the National Assembly, Han Duck-soo has assumed the role of acting president.

According to AFP, the White House stated that President Biden reaffirmed that the U.S.-South Korea alliance would continue to be a cornerstone of peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region during Han's tenure as acting president. Biden also praised the resilience of South Korea’s democracy and rule of law and reiterated the steadfast commitment to bilateral relations.

On the night of December 3, without prior warning, President Yoon caused a political shock by proposing "martial law," sparking instability in South Korea's political landscape. An initial impeachment vote on December 7 failed to pass, but a second vote on December 14 succeeded with 204 votes in favor, 85 against, 3 abstentions, and 8 invalid ballots.

With the impeachment approved by a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly, President Yoon’s powers were suspended, and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo assumed the duties of acting president. The Constitutional Court now has 180 days to deliver a final ruling on the impeachment, with a deadline set for mid-June next year.

The Constitutional Court, which comprises nine justices, currently has three vacancies. At least seven justices must be present to proceed with the case, and a minimum of six votes is required to uphold the impeachment. If the impeachment is confirmed, a presidential by-election must be held within 60 days. If the impeachment is overturned, Yoon will immediately resume his presidency.

During this period, Acting President Han Duck-soo will carry out the constitutional and legal duties of the presidency, including commanding the military, declaring martial law, and signing or approving treaties. Although President Yoon is suspended, he retains his presidential status, allowing him to continue residing in the presidential residence, receiving a basic monthly salary, and enjoying state-provided security and ceremonial privileges.