South Korea is navigating a period of political instability following President Yoon Suk-yeol’s brief declaration of martial law, which was swiftly overturned by the National Assembly. The incident has triggered calls for his impeachment, accusations of treason, and mounting public protests, casting uncertainty over the president’s political future.
Martial Law Declaration and Reversal
On Tuesday night, President Yoon declared martial law, accusing opposition parties of obstructing governance by pushing for impeachment proceedings and rejecting next year’s budget. This marked the first such declaration since South Korea’s transition to democracy in 1987. Martial law troops stormed the National Assembly, and police blocked the compound’s entrances, barring lawmakers from entering.
The move, however, was short-lived. Within six hours, the National Assembly convened an emergency session and voted unanimously (190-0) to overturn the declaration. This included votes from some members of Yoon’s own conservative People Power Party (PPP). Faced with the legal mandate to comply, Yoon lifted martial law early Wednesday, addressing the nation in a televised statement.
Opposition Calls for Impeachment and Treason Charges
The main opposition Democratic Party (DP) and its allies have intensified their efforts to impeach Yoon. DP leader Lee Jae-myung, who narrowly lost to Yoon in the 2022 presidential election, described the martial law declaration as “illegal” and claimed Yoon was “no longer the president of South Korea.” The DP also announced plans to file treason charges against Yoon and his top defense and interior ministers.
The impeachment motion, submitted Wednesday, requires a two-thirds majority in the 300-member parliament to pass. The DP and its allies control 192 seats, meaning at least eight PPP lawmakers would need to support the motion for it to succeed. If the impeachment vote passes, the Constitutional Court will decide whether to formally remove Yoon from office. During this period, Yoon’s powers would be suspended, and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would assume his responsibilities.
Political Fallout Within the Ruling Party
President Yoon’s martial law declaration has deepened divisions within the PPP. Party leader Han Dong-hoon acknowledged that while there is consensus to dissolve the Cabinet and dismiss the defense chief, the party is split on whether to call for Yoon’s resignation. The incident highlights broader challenges within the PPP, which has struggled with internal disputes and public dissatisfaction since Yoon’s election.
Adding to the tensions, allegations of corruption and political interference involving First Lady Kim Keon-hee have cast a shadow over Yoon’s presidency. The DP plans to reintroduce a special counsel bill next week to investigate these allegations. Yoon has vetoed the bill three times, but a two-thirds majority could override his decision.
Public Outcry and International Reactions
Thousands of demonstrators have taken to the streets of Seoul, demanding Yoon’s resignation and expressing outrage over the martial law declaration. Civic groups have described the president’s actions as a threat to democracy, while the lifting of martial law was met with widespread relief.
Internationally, the incident has raised concerns among South Korea’s allies. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken welcomed the swift reversal of martial law, urging South Korean leaders to resolve their disagreements peacefully and uphold the rule of law. The situation comes at a critical juncture, as Yoon had been preparing to engage with former U.S. President Donald Trump, whose return to the White House is expected to bring significant geopolitical shifts.
Historical and Constitutional Context
Martial law in South Korea is traditionally reserved for situations where civilian authorities cannot function, such as during war or severe emergencies. The last instance of martial law occurred during the country’s authoritarian era, making Yoon’s declaration a significant departure from the democratic norms established in 1987.
The incident underscores the deep political divides in South Korea, where a conservative president is at odds with a parliament dominated by liberal opposition parties. Yoon’s critics argue that the martial law declaration was an attempt to suppress impeachment efforts and bypass parliamentary scrutiny, further eroding public trust in his administration.
What Lies Ahead
The impeachment process against Yoon, if successful, would mark a watershed moment in South Korean politics. The outcome depends on whether PPP lawmakers are willing to break ranks and support the motion. Simultaneously, the opposition’s push to investigate allegations against the First Lady could add further pressure on the presidency.
The crisis has also highlighted broader governance challenges, including managing security threats and economic uncertainties, at a time of shifting international alliances. Yoon’s abrupt martial law declaration has not only jeopardised his presidency but also raised questions about South Korea’s political stability and democratic resilience.
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