SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea's opposition-controlled parliament has formally introduced an impeachment motion on President Park Geun-hye. This sets the stage for a likely impeachment vote Friday.

 

A parliamentary official reported the motion to a plenary session Thursday. A vote on impeachment must then be held within 72 hours.

 

Friday is the final day of the current parliamentary regular session.

 

Political observers say the opposition has enough ruling party dissenters to pass Park's impeachment.

 

If impeached, the country's Constitutional Court will have up to 180 days to determine whether to formally unseat Park or restore her presidential powers.

 

The prime minister will rule while the court decides.

 

Prosecutors say Park let a corrupt confidante manipulate government affairs and extort businesses.