Seoul: Public opinion surveys indicate a narrowing gap in support between South Korea's ruling and opposition parties as the impeachment impasse continues to unfold. In a recent poll conducted by Gallup Korea during the second week of January, 64 percent of respondents expressed support for impeaching President Yoon Suk Yeol. However, the Democratic Party (DP), which initiated the impeachment motion, saw its support drop to 36 percent-a 12 percentage-point decrease from previous surveys. Conversely, the ruling People Power Party (PPP) experienced a 10 percentage-point increase in support, bringing it to 34 percent, placing the two parties within the margin of error. Although some surveys have faced criticism for leading questions, the shift in public sentiment is undeniable. Political circles, however, appear oblivious to the implications of these results.
According to Yonhap News Agency, those who criticize President Yoon but have withdrawn their support for the DP must have specific reasons for their disillusionment, yet the DP seems unaware. Instead of focusing on ensuring governmental stability as the largest party in the legislature, the DP continues its contentious actions. Following the initiation of impeachment proceedings against Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, it also targeted acting President Choi Sang-mok of the Presidential Security Service, accusing him of negligence over alleged security violations. Though this motion was eventually withdrawn, other actions-such as monopolizing the right to recommend a special prosecutor, incendiary remarks by figures like Rep. Jung Chung-rae, and the exclusion of sedition charges from the impeachment articles-have further polarized public opinion.
The ruling PPP is also a cause for concern. Encouraged by its recent rise in approval ratings, it has displayed regressive behavior that alienates moderates. Despite the fact that the party's president is now a suspect in a treason case due to his extreme declaration of martial law and refusal to comply with lawful arrest warrants, many PPP lawmakers continue to align with hard-liners. Misjudgments include organizing a press conference for the "White Skull Corps," a group infamous for its violent suppression of pro-democracy protests in the 1950s, and urging Rep. Kim Sang-wook to leave the party for his differing stance. Such actions reveal the PPP's mistaken belief that its recent boost in support reflects its own merits rather than a backlash against the DP's excesses.
Both parties must cease their self-serving interpretations of public opinion and work towards actions that stabilize the political landscape, such as reaching a bipartisan agreement on a special prosecutor bill. The DP must be cautious not to weaponize national security by including charges of "treason" in its special prosecutor motion, as such actions could further politicize sensitive issues. If evidence of such crimes arises during the special prosecutor's investigation, further probes can be pursued. The PPP must avoid using the special prosecutor as a tool to delay accountability for President Yoon's defiance of lawful arrest. Attempts to stall through procedural maneuvers could backfire.
A swift bipartisan agreement on the special prosecutor bill is essential to eliminate controversy over prosecutorial authority and ensure President Yoon's compliance with investigations. By mediating a solution that encourages the president's cooperation, the PPP can demonstrate political leadership and shed its image as a party condoning authoritarian measures. Both parties must prioritize public trust and national stability over partisan gains in this critical moment.