South Korean Political Turmoil: Vetoed Bills and Controversial Martial Law

South Korea faces political upheaval as its acting leader plans to veto bills backed by the opposition following President Yoon's impeachment. The vetoed bills aimed at agriculture and privacy sparked controversy. The Constitutional Court's decision on Yoon's presidency and further investigations into his martial law enforcement add complexity.

In a deepening political crisis, South Korea's acting leader announced plans to veto several contentious bills supported by the main opposition party. This decision escalates already high tensions following the parliamentary impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol.

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, acting as leader, finds himself at the center of a fierce dispute between the ruling and opposition parties over his authority. This strife follows the National Assembly's decision to suspend President Yoon's powers due to his controversial martial law enactment.

The Constitutional Court is expected to rule on whether to permanently remove Yoon from office or restore his presidential powers. Meanwhile, law enforcement continues to probe if Yoon's brief martial law announcement constituted a rebellion against the state.

A wide range of reactions has emerged following the proposed veto of six bills by Han. Four of these were designed to extend state financial assistance to agricultural and fishing sectors. The Grain Management Act specifically generated debate, suggesting government purchase of surplus rice to stabilize market prices. Han argued, however, that this could further burden the government financially and destabilize rice prices.

The National Assembly Testimony Appraisal Act, another contentious proposal, aims to enhance lawmakers' ability to compel attendance at hearings and submission of documents. Critics, including Han, caution that it could infringe on personal privacy and risk exposure of sensitive trade and business information. Nonetheless, the Democratic Party defends it as crucial to uncover the full scale of Yoon's martial law measure.

At a Cabinet Council meeting, Han expressed regret over the lack of political consensus, stressing the need for unity among government factions. Despite Democratic Party criticism warning Han not to collaborate with rebellion efforts, discussions continue on the potential impeachment of Han should he proceed with the veto.

A matter of legal contention is Han's authority to fill three vacant seats on the Constitutional Court, a decision that could influence the court's ruling on Yoon. The brief martial law declaration, lasting a mere six hours, inflicted significant political damage in South Korea, creating ripples that extended to international diplomatic circles.

(With inputs from agencies.)