Seoul: South Korean opposition lawmakers announced plans to vote on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment this weekend, following his controversial declaration of martial law earlier this week. The move has sparked allegations of treason, with police investigating claims against Yoon and senior ministers.
Martial Law Declaration Sparks Uproar
President Yoon’s imposition of martial law late Tuesday, intended to consolidate power by banning political activities and censoring media, triggered widespread public outrage and alarmed South Korea’s international allies. The defense minister, Kim Yong-hyun, who advised Yoon to take this step, has since resigned.
Democratic Party lawmakers, leading the impeachment charge, condemned Yoon’s actions. “The Yoon Suk Yeol regime’s declaration of emergency martial law caused great confusion and fear among our people,” said Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Seung-won during a National Assembly session.
The Democratic Party plans to seek a vote in parliament on Saturday evening. To succeed, they need support from at least eight members of Yoon’s ruling People Power Party, requiring a two-thirds majority in the 300-seat legislature.
Political Turmoil and Resignations
As the crisis deepens, Yoon nominated Choi Byung-hyuk, currently serving as South Korea’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, to replace the ousted defense minister. Vice-Defense Minister Kim Seon-ho, meanwhile, admitted to parliament that he was unaware of the martial law declaration until it was publicly announced. “I have fundamentally opposed the mobilization of military forces under martial law,” he said, apologizing for his role in the unfolding events.
The army chief has also offered his resignation, further highlighting the internal discord. Investigations into allegations of treason have been launched, involving Yoon, his former defense minister, and his interior minister.
Regional and Global Repercussions
Yoon’s declaration has sent ripples beyond South Korea. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed concerns about regional security, citing instability in Seoul and North Korea’s growing military assertiveness.
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The United States, South Korea’s primary ally, expressed surprise at Yoon’s actions. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that Washington had no prior knowledge of the martial law declaration. General Paul LaCamera, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, advised American troops to remain vigilant amid the unrest.
A Night of Chaos
The impeachment effort follows a dramatic confrontation earlier in the week when armed troops attempted to breach the National Assembly in Seoul but retreated after aides used fire extinguishers to deter them. Protesters, fearing a return to the era of martial law and dictatorship, have vowed to resist.
“For the sake of my children, this must be stopped no matter what,” said Kim Hye-Min, a protester outside parliament.
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If the impeachment motion passes, South Korea’s Constitutional Court will decide its validity, a process that could take up to 180 days. Should Yoon be suspended or removed, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would temporarily assume leadership.
