TOKYO — South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol finds himself in a precarious position following his recent declaration of martial law last week. This situation could lead to an impeachment attempt that will be highlighted during parliamentary discussions scheduled for Saturday.
In the past week, South Korea has experienced political turmoil and widespread protests as citizens voice their discontent against Yoon. His unexpected martial law announcement on December 3 marked the first such declaration in over 40 years. Reacting swiftly, lawmakers and nearly 300 armed soldiers convened urgently to reverse Yoon’s decision within six hours of its announcement.
Amid ongoing debates regarding his potential impeachment, investigations into the legitimacy of Yoon’s martial law declaration have intensified, resulting in the detention of several high-ranking officials. Here’s an overview of the significant political events transpiring in what many are deeming one of South Korea’s most tumultuous weeks.
The prospect of Yoon’s impeachment hangs in the balance. Opposition parties are branding Yoon’s martial law declaration as an “unconstitutional, illegal rebellion or coup.” Despite holding 192 seats in the National Assembly, the opposition requires the support of at least eight members from Yoon’s conservative governing party to secure the two-thirds majority needed to successfully move forward with impeachment.
During a speech on Thursday intended to rally support among his party, Yoon characterized his martial law order as a legitimate governance measure rather than a rebellious act. He vowed to “fight to the end” against those attempting to initiate impeachment proceedings as investigations escalate.
The main opposition party, the Democratic Party, announced their intention to present a new impeachment motion against Yoon on Thursday, with plans for a vote this weekend. Han Dong-hun, the chair of Yoon’s governing party and a noted critic, referred to the president’s assertions as “a confession of rebellion,” encouraging party members to support impeachment.
Should Yoon be impeached, he would be temporarily suspended from office until the Constitutional Court reaches a decision regarding his removal. In this scenario, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would assume presidential duties.
In the last week, Seoul has been engulfed in political frenzy. Investigations have been launched to determine whether Yoon and associates engaged in rebellion or abuse of power through the martial law declaration. Earlier this week, the Justice Ministry prohibited Yoon from traveling abroad. However, the president’s possible detention remains uncertain.
On Wednesday, police were denied access to search the presidential office by Yoon’s security team. Meanwhile, former defense minister Kim Yong Hyun was arrested in connection with allegations of rebellion and abuse of power, marking the first formal arrest related to the martial law controversy. Kim reportedly attempted suicide while in detention but was restrained and is now reported to be in stable condition.
The nation’s police chief and the head of the metropolitan police were also taken into custody for their roles in sending police forces to the National Assembly. Lawmakers have voted to impeach both the national police chief and the justice minister amid these investigations.
In the streets of Seoul, thousands have participated in protests demanding Yoon’s resignation. Labor groups, including the Korean Metal Workers’ Union, are initiating strikes in response to the president’s actions.
What is the significance of martial law? South Korea’s constitution grants the president authority to deploy military forces during wartime or severe national emergencies. Such powers include the suspension of civil liberties like press freedoms and assembly rights, along with temporarily limiting the functions of governmental institutions. Additionally, the National Assembly holds the authority to lift martial law through a majority vote.
When Yoon imposed martial law, lawmakers rushed to the assembly building to thwart it, with some climbing walls to bypass military barriers in order to establish a quorum for the vote, which concluded with a unanimous outcome of 190-0, including support from members of Yoon’s own party.
The impeachment motion accuses Yoon of overstepping his constitutional powers by declaring martial law in a non-crisis situation. The constitution prohibits a president from using military force to suspend parliamentary activities. The allegations suggest that Yoon’s actions and deployment of troops equate to rebellion.
Yoon has faced challenges in advancing his legislative agenda in a parliament dominated by opposition since he assumed office in 2022. Conservatives argue that the impeachment efforts are politically motivated, targeting him as retaliation for investigations into Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, regarded as a strong candidate in the forthcoming 2027 presidential race.
In recent weeks, Yoon has denied any wrongdoing in a scandal involving influence-peddling allegations against him and his spouse. These accusations have significantly damaged his approval ratings and provided ammunition for his political adversaries, stemming from claims that Yoon and the first lady inappropriately influenced party decisions regarding election candidates.
Historically, martial law carries negative connotations in South Korea. The country has a history of military leaders declaring martial law to suppress anti-government protests and maintain control. In 1961, General Park Chung-hee executed a coup, imposing martial law repeatedly to stifle dissent. This unsettling legacy makes the current situation particularly significant and sensitive as South Korea navigates its political future.
