South Korean president impeached

South Korea's parliament impeached President Roh Moo-hyun yesterday, suspending him from office amid chaotic scenes and thrusting the country into unprecedented economic and political uncertainty.

Some 12,000 Roh supporters, many holding candles and chanting slogans, protested peacefully near the National Assembly parliament building and the headquarters of the main opposition Grand National Party. Riot police stood at the ready.

All Roh's powers are in limbo until the Constitutional Court rules on the vote, which the opposition called after he broke an election law. That process could take up to six months, during which time Prime Minister Goh Kun will run the country.