The South Korean President, Yoon Suk Yeol, is set to face uncertainty due to a crucial impeachment vote after his brief and feeble move at enforcing martial law sets off firecracker-like protests and politico-catastrophic changes sweeping through the nation.
The Parliament Prepares for Voting
The impeachment motion initiated by the main opposition Democratic Party needs the support of at least eight members of Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP) to succeed. However, it remains uncertain as PPP members are already leaving parliament following their votes on a separate motion related to an investigation into Yoon’s first lady. The absence of several lawmakers raises doubts over whether the motion will be able to succeed.
A public riot arose at the doorstep of the parliament with protesters demanding leaders from the PPP return to vote. Voices shouted, “Go back in, join the vote,” and it was seen to be a matter of extreme urgency.
Public Flak
Speakers at the protest criticized lawmakers who departed the session, accusing them of ignoring public opinion. “This is ignoring the will of the people,” he said. “This is disregard of the people, disregard of the national assembly. As representatives, you must not do this.”
President Yoon’s Apology and Continued Pressure
Earlier in the day, President Yoon apologized publicly for his controversial move to impose martial law—South Korea’s first since 1980. “The declaration of this martial law was made out of my desperation,” Yoon said in his address, acknowledging the anxiety it caused. “I feel very sorry over that and truly apologize to the people who must have been shocked.”
Despite the apology, Yoon refused to resign, even as calls for his resignation grew, even from within his own party. PPP leader Han Dong-hoon said that Yoon was no longer fit to serve.
The crisis broke out after Yoon mentioned the North Korean threats and blamed the National Assembly for hampering government functions, leading him to declare emergency military powers. The decision sparked strong criticism from the local and international communities. The senior U.S. officials, who had previously been a supporter of Yoon, condemned the decision, forcing U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to cancel his scheduled visit to South Korea.
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