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December 7, 2024 | 02:03 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol apologized on Saturday, December 7, 2024, for his brief martial law declaration earlier this week but resisted growing calls to resign, even from within his party. The apology came hours before a planned impeachment vote led by opposition lawmakers. In a televised address, Yoon described the decision as a desperate measure and took responsibility but promised no further attempts at martial law.
The controversial declaration, rescinded just six hours after being issued, has plunged South Korea into its worst political crisis in decades, shaking its image as a democratic success. Yoon left his political future in the hands of his party, saying they could decide on steps to stabilize the situation. However, his party leader, Han Dong-hoon, argued that Yoon’s resignation was inevitable, describing him as unfit to lead.
Under the constitution, if Yoon resigns or is impeached, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would serve as acting president, with a presidential election required within 60 days. Lawmakers are expected to vote on impeachment at 5 p.m. on Saturday, with opposition leaders promising another attempt if the motion fails.
Public pressure against Yoon has been mounting, with thousands protesting outside parliament on Friday night. To impeach him, at least eight members of his party would need to join the opposition in the vote. If the impeachment passes, it will proceed to the Constitutional Court, where six of nine justices must approve it.
Martial Law Controversy
Yoon shocked the nation by invoking martial law on Tuesday, citing threats from "North Korean communist forces" and anti-state elements. The decree granted sweeping powers to the military but was quickly withdrawn after fierce backlash. He also accused the National Assembly of undermining government functions and safety through budget mismanagement and impeachment efforts.
The move further isolated Yoon politically as he struggled with scandals, opposition pressure, and divisions within his own party. Internationally, it drew rare criticism from the U.S., with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin canceling a visit to South Korea. Yoon’s leadership, once praised for championing democracy, is now under scrutiny.
Yoon’s actions have drawn comparisons to the 2016 impeachment of former President Park Geun-hye, whose ousting followed months of public protests. Protesters demanding Yoon’s impeachment have reignited similar demonstrations, holding candlelight vigils outside parliament.
Prosecutors are investigating Yoon and his officials for insurrection and abuse of power. If convicted, they face severe penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty. The unfolding crisis could take months to resolve and further destabilize the country’s political landscape.
TEMPO.CO
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