South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol faced intense pressure this week after attempting to impose martial law. He apologized publicly, saying his decision was made out of desperation, but also confirmed he would not step down. His apology came just hours before an impeachment vote that could decide his future in office.
Yoon declared martial law on Tuesday, giving the military emergency powers to respond to “threats” from North Korea. This decision was the first of its kind in South Korea since 1980. However, just six hours later, he rescinded the order after facing massive opposition from parliament, which voted against it.
Yoon’s apology on Saturday was his first public appearance since the incident. He expressed regret for shocking the nation and promised there would be no second attempt to impose martial law. He also said that it was up to his political party to decide the next steps regarding his position as president.
The martial law move had caused a political crisis in South Korea, with many seeing it as a threat to the country’s democratic values. Yoon’s leadership had already been questioned due to personal scandals and political conflicts, and now he faced calls for resignation even from within his own party. The leader of his ruling People Power Party (PPP), Han Dong-hoon, stated that Yoon could no longer fulfill his duties, urging him to step down.
While Yoon resisted calls for resignation, he did not rule out the possibility of impeachment. Lawmakers were set to vote on a motion to impeach him later on Saturday. If the impeachment passes, South Korea’s prime minister would temporarily take over as president until a new election is held.
The martial law declaration sent shockwaves across the world, drawing criticism from international allies, including the United States. It also sparked protests in South Korea, with thousands of demonstrators calling for Yoon’s impeachment. If Yoon is impeached, a trial will follow in the Constitutional Court to determine whether he should be permanently removed from office.
This political crisis has raised concerns about the future of South Korea’s democracy and the stability of its government. Investigations into Yoon’s actions are underway, with prosecutors considering charges of insurrection and abuse of power.
