South Korea Political Crisis: President Yoon’s Resignation Demands Mount Over Martial Law Controversy
In light of the crisis, several high-ranking officials in Yoon's administration have resigned, including his chief of staff and national security adviser.
South Korea is currently experiencing a significant political crisis as President Yoon Suk Yeol faces mounting pressure to resign or face impeachment following his controversial declaration and rapid reversal of martial law.
On December 3, 2024, President Yoon announced martial law in a late-night address, citing threats from “anti-state forces,” particularly targeting his political opponents. This declaration aimed to curb political activities and media freedom, marking the first such imposition in South Korea since the 1980s.
The declaration was met with immediate backlash from lawmakers. In a dramatic session, 190 members of the National Assembly voted against the martial law decree, leading to its swift retraction by Yoon just hours after its announcement. This rejection highlighted a significant loss of support for Yoon within his own party and among the opposition.
Thousands of South Koreans took to the streets in protest against the martial law and demanded Yoon’s resignation. Demonstrators celebrated the parliamentary vote that nullified the declaration, chanting slogans against the president.
Political Repercussions
Following these events, the main opposition party, the Democratic Party, announced plans to file an impeachment motion against Yoon. They accuse him of “rebellion-related offenses” and have called for accountability of other officials involved in the martial law decision.
Under South Korean law, if more than two-thirds of the National Assembly supports the motion, Yoon would be suspended from office pending a trial in the Constitutional Court.
In light of the crisis, several high-ranking officials in Yoon’s administration have resigned, including his chief of staff and national security adviser. This exodus reflects increasing dissatisfaction and instability within his government.
Yoon’s presidency has been marked by low approval ratings, hovering around 17%, largely due to various scandals and ineffective governance since he took office in 2022. The current turmoil poses serious questions about his ability to lead effectively amidst escalating political tensions and public discontent.
The situation is further complicated by concerns over North Korea’s reactions to South Korea’s internal instability, which could embolden adversarial actions from Pyongyang.
South Korea’s political landscape is currently fraught with uncertainty as President Yoon Suk Yeol navigates calls for resignation and potential impeachment following a controversial attempt to impose martial law.
