Seoul South Korea is going through a political storm these days. The declaration of martial law in the country by President Yoon Suk Yeol on Tuesday not only shook the government but also sparked anger among the public and the opposition across the country. This order was withdrawn within six hours, but the President’s chair is in danger. Opposition parties have submitted an impeachment motion against Yoon, which is a direct attack on his power.
Opposition’s allegation: Threat to democracy
South Korea’s main opposition Democratic Party strongly condemned Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law order, calling it a direct attack on democracy. Senior Democratic Party leader Kim Yong-jin said, “We will not let democracy die. This impeachment is necessary to protect the safety and rights of the people. Yun has committed treason, and he will be held accountable for it.”
Opposition leaders say Yun tried to strengthen his hold on power by misusing the military. Additionally, he has also demanded action against his fellow ministers Kim Yong-hyun and Lee Sang-min. Both of these ministers stood with Yun in ordering martial law.
Public outcry: protests on the streets
Public anger is visible on the streets across the country. Protesters in the capital Seoul chanted slogans demanding the resignation and arrest of President Yoon. “Arrest Yoon Suk-yeol” Such slogans are echoing in the streets of Seoul.
South Korea’s largest labor group Korean Confederation of Trade Unions Has announced an indefinite strike till the resignation of the President. He says that this protest will continue until the President leaves the post.
Government bombarded with resignations
This political crisis has created panic within the government also. Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun resigned from his post, taking responsibility for the martial law order. He said, “This order has caused confusion and tension, for which I apologize.”
Apart from this, Chief of Staff Chung Jin-suk and National Security Advisor Shin Won-sik have also resigned from their posts. However, there is no clarity on whether his resignation will be accepted or not.
Impeachment process: decision on the future of the President
To pass an impeachment motion in Parliament, the approval of two-thirds i.e. 200 members of the 300-member National Assembly will be required. The special thing is that this process will have to be completed within 72 hours. If impeachment is approved, President Yoon will be immediately suspended. In this situation the Prime Minister will become the acting President.
International pressure and impact on the country’s image
This political crisis has also attracted the attention of the international community. South Korea has a reputation as a stable and developed democracy, but this crisis could tarnish its global image. Experts believe that if this issue is not resolved soon, it could have a deep impact on the country’s economy and foreign policy.
The future path: Will Yoon resign?
President Yoon Suk-yeol has so far given no indication of resigning from his post. However, public pressure and aggressive stance of opposition parties indicate that his position is in danger. If the impeachment is successful, it will be a watershed moment in South Korea’s political history.
