South Korea is in the midst of a political storm following President Yoon Suk Yeol’s unprecedented declaration of martial law earlier this week. The controversial move, quickly overturned by the National Assembly, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for his resignation.
In a brief televised speech, President Yoon issued a public apology, saying, “I am very sorry and would like to sincerely apologise to the people who were shocked. Regarding the declaration of martial law, I will not avoid any legal or political responsibility.” Despite speculation that he might step down, Yoon refrained from resigning, instead delegating crisis management to his ruling People Power Party (PPP).
Resignation and Impeachment Demands Intensify
Yoon’s apology has done little to quell the growing calls for his resignation. Han Dong-hoon, leader of the PPP, stated, “His early resignation is inevitable.” Meanwhile, opposition parties are ramping up efforts to impeach the embattled president, with a vote scheduled for Saturday. The motion requires support from at least eight PPP members to secure the two-thirds majority needed in the 300-seat parliament.
Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung expressed disappointment in Yoon’s address, accusing him of deepening public anger and betrayal. “The greatest risk facing South Korea right now is the very existence of the president,” Lee remarked, vowing to do everything possible to remove Yoon from office.
Public Outcry Against Yoon
Public sentiment has turned sharply against the president, with citizens expressing fear and distrust. “I have lost complete trust in him as a president,” said Yang Soonsil, a seafood vendor in Seoul. “We need to fight until the end. He cannot maintain his position.”
Shopper Han Jungmo echoed these sentiments, stating that Yoon’s apology was insufficient. “He must either step down voluntarily or be impeached. If he insists on staying, it will lead to a hopeless situation,” Han said, adding that the declaration of martial law was just one of many missteps by the president.
A Presidency Under Fire
Yoon’s martial law declaration, justified by alleged threats from “anti-state forces” and North Korea, has been widely criticized as a reaction to his domestic challenges rather than genuine external threats. His presidency has been plagued by corruption allegations, low approval ratings, and an opposition-controlled legislature.
The declaration, made late Tuesday night, was overturned six hours later after lawmakers convened in parliament, with some physically forcing their way past security to void the decree. The dramatic events have left Yoon’s leadership in question, with analysts suggesting his position is becoming increasingly untenable.
As South Korea braces for the upcoming impeachment vote, the nation remains deeply divided. The outcome will determine whether Yoon’s presidency can withstand this crisis or if the political turmoil will culminate in his removal from office.
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Yonhap News Agency, The Korea Herald, BBC News Asia, Reuters, The Guardian,
