South Korea in Turmoil: President Yoon Faces Travel Ban and Calls for Resignation
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is facing a growing leadership crisis after his short-lived martial law declaration last week, which has led to an overseas travel ban and mounting pressure for him to step down.
Martial law sparks controversy as failed impeachment fuels opposition
The martial law declaration, made on December 3rd, shocked the nation by banning political activities and censoring the media, drawing comparisons to the country's past military rule. Though Yoon rescinded the order within six hours, the fallout has been swift and severe.
Opposition lawmakers have accused Yoon of attempting a "coup" and are determined to push for his impeachment. The first impeachment attempt failed over the weekend after members of Yoon's People Power Party (PPP) boycotted the vote, leaving the assembly without the necessary quorum. However, the opposition has vowed to reintroduce the motion every Saturday until Yoon steps down.
Apology fails to end protests as backlash mounts on Yoon
Yoon, who took office in 2022, has apologized publicly for the declaration of martial law. In his address, he pledged not to impose such measures again and expressed willingness to accept legal and political consequences. However, opposition leaders insist his apology is insufficient, calling for his immediate resignation.
The turmoil has sparked mass protests, with thousands demanding Yoon's ouster. Some opposition lawmakers have accused the PPP of clinging to power by protecting Yoon, with one describing the party as “accomplices to insurrection.” Despite the backlash, Yoon’s party has defended its actions as an attempt to ensure a smooth transition of power while addressing the economic and political instability caused by the crisis.
Yoon under investigation for treason as officials linked to incident are banned from travelling
The crisis escalated on Monday when South Korea's Corruption Investigation Office confirmed that Yoon is under investigation for treason and rebellion. While sitting presidents are generally immune from prosecution, this immunity does not cover charges of this nature. Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who reportedly suggested the martial law declaration, was arrested on Sunday, and several other officials linked to the incident have resigned from their positions or been banned from travel.
Adding to the uncertainty, the Ministry of National Defence confirmed that Yoon retains command of the armed forces. This raises concerns about the potential for further executive actions should Yoon decide to reassert his authority. Political analysts warn that this could deepen the country’s constitutional crisis.
PPP announce PM Han Duck-soo will manage government affairs
In an effort to stabilize the situation, PPP leader Han Dong-hoon announced that Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would manage government affairs, sidelining Yoon from foreign and domestic responsibilities until his eventual resignation. Critics, however, claim this move is unconstitutional. “This is an unlawful, unconstitutional act of a second insurrection,” said Park Chan-dae, floor leader of the Democratic Party, which controls the majority in parliament.
The political chaos comes at a precarious time for South Korea, with heightened regional tensions due to North Korea’s military activities and its growing ties with Russia. Analysts have stressed the importance of maintaining South Korea’s alliances with the United States and Japan to navigate these challenges.
As the opposition prepares for a second impeachment vote, the nation remains divided. The next few weeks could determine whether Yoon steps down voluntarily or faces legal proceedings, marking a critical moment in South Korea’s democratic history.
