Protesters demand that Yoon step down in Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square to march towards the Parliament, were another rally has been organized by the opposition. In addition, group He goes to Yoon’s office. in the center of the capital.
The conservative president, who has difficulty governing as he does not have a majority in Parliament, was surprised on December 3 by a martial law decree that was justified because of the threat from North Korea and “anti-state forces.”
Although he reversed himself hours later, the decision fell into South korea one of the worst political crises of its modern history.
His political opponents, some of whom jumped barriers and confronted security forces to enter Parliament, censure motion for dismissal.
“We have submitted a motion to remove it, prepared urgently,” said representatives of six opposition parties, including the main party, the Democratic Party, and indicated that a motion could be voted on on December 6.
The Democratic Party demands Yoon’s resignation and announced rebellion lawsuits against the President, his Ministers of Defense and interior and various military and police officers involved.
the largest union institution in the country asked to indefinite general strike until the president resigns.
Even Han Dong Hoon, the leader of Yoon’s party, the People’s Power Party, demanded explanations and declared that “all those responsible must be held accountable”.
Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun resigned and took full obligation for the public’s confusion and concern regarding martial law.
“Catch Yoon!”
After declaring martial law, the president, a former prosecutor who became president in 2022, decided to finally lift it. 190 deputies entered Parliament to vote against the decision.
The South Korean Constitution states that martial law must be lifted if requested by a majority of the Parliament.
At 4:30 local time on December 4, Yoon announced on television the military withdrawal deployed for military law operations.
Thousands of protesters who gathered in front of Parliament on December 3 accepted the decision amid speeches from Parliament. “¡Arrest Yoon Suk Yeol!”.
“Yes an act of taxation without a legitimate reason It is a serious crime in itself,” said Lim Myeong-pan, 55. “He has paved the way for his own dismissal,” he said.
Police form a chain as protesters take part in a march against South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol as he heads towards the National Assembly in Seoul. (free Press Photo: Philip FONG / AFP).
Also read: Martial law in South Korea: they close Parliament, ban political activities and authorize control of the press
A sharp fall in the stock market
The Seoul Stock Exchange closed on december 3rd with losses 1.44% and the government announced that it will provide sufficient liquidity to support financial markets.
To defend martial law, the first since the country’s democratic regime was established in 1987, Yoon said in a solemn televised speech that it was necessary “Defend liberal South Korea from threats posed by communist forces in North Korea.”
He also said that there was a need to “eliminate anti-state elements “that steals the freedom and happiness of the people.”
The president did not give details about threats from pyongyang, but south Korea technically still at war with North Koreawhich has a nuclear arsenal.
South Korea’s opposition plans to oust President Yoon Suk Yeol after the declaration of martial law brought thousands of protests to the streets. (Free Press photo: ANTHONY WALLACE / AFP).
While in force,martial law caused the deployment of the army,the a ban on all political activity and brought the media under government control.
The United States, with 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea to counter the threat from Pyongyang, welcomed Yoon’s decision to lift martial law.
“We hope that the differences will be resolved peacefully,” said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
What are the key factors contributing to the political crisis in South Korea under President Yoon’s leadership?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Political Analyst dr. Kim
Editor: Good afternoon, Dr.Kim. Thank you for joining us today. The political climate in South Korea has reached a boiling point with recent protests and calls for President Yoon to resign.How would you characterize the current situation?
Dr. Kim: Good afternoon! Yes, the atmosphere in South Korea is quite tense. We are witnessing one of the most notable political crises in modern history. The protests at Gwanghwamun Square, where thousands are demanding President Yoon’s resignation, highlight the growing frustration among citizens over his leadership and decision-making.
Editor: indeed, the declaration of martial law took many by surprise. What was the immediate reaction from the public and opposition parties?
Dr. Kim: The reaction was overwhelmingly negative. This move, justified by threats from North Korea, seemed to many as an overreach of power. As you mentioned, the opposition swiftly organized, with six parties submitting a motion for Yoon’s dismissal. The urgency and unity among these parties signal deep dissatisfaction with his presidency, especially given that he lacks a parliamentary majority.
Editor: The situation escalated quickly. Within hours, President Yoon reversed the martial law order. What dose this reversal indicate about his leadership?
Dr. Kim: It reflects a significant shift. The rapid turnaround suggests he may have realized the extent of public backlash and the potential for political repercussions. However, it also raises questions about his ability to govern effectively. For a president to declare martial law and then retract it so swiftly indicates a lack of foresight or understanding of the political landscape.
Editor: With accusations of rebellion lawsuits from the Democratic Party and the resignation of defense Minister Kim yong-hyun, do you think Yoon will face lasting consequences?
Dr. Kim: Absolutely. The demand for accountability is growing. The fact that even leaders within his party are calling for explanations suggests a fissure in his support base. If the motion for removal is voted on as planned, it could set a precedent for further political instability. the public appeal for an indefinite general strike underscores how serious this situation is.
Editor: The protests are not just political but seem to resonate with societal frustrations as well. Can you elaborate on the implications this may have for South Korea’s future?
Dr. Kim: This crisis reflects deeper societal divisions and a growing demand for transparency and accountability in government. If the protestors continue to gain momentum, we could see significant changes in political alignments and voter behavior in future elections. The economic and social ramifications could also be profound if instability persists, perhaps leading to a reevaluation of policies and party loyalties.
Editor: Lastly, Do you think President Yoon can recover from this crisis, or is his presidency at risk?
Dr. Kim: Recovery is absolutely possible,but it requires a significant shift in how he engages with both the public and Parliament. he needs to show he can listen to the concerns of the people and provide clear, decisive leadership. Though,given the current sentiments among both the opposition and the populace,the path ahead is complex and fraught with challenges.
Editor: Thank you, Dr.Kim, for your insights. It’s clear that South Korea is at a crossroads, and the political landscape could shift dramatically in the coming weeks.
Dr.Kim: Thank you for having me. It will be captivating to see how this unfolds.