Robert Kelly, a professor of political science and diplomacy at Pusan National University who attracted attention around the world when his children appeared during an interview regarding the impeachment of (then) President Park Geun-hye in 2017, was summoned again in response to President Yoon Seok-yeol’s declaration of martial law.
On the 4th (local time), Professor Kelly was interviewed by CNN about the martial law situation in Korea via video link.
CNN anchors commented, “didn’t President yoon sing ‘American Pie’ in English (at a White House dinner) during his state visit to the United states in April last year?”
Professor Kelly said, “That’s right.It seemed okay at the time. “It looked normal,” he said. Regarding the declaration of martial law, “No one knew what was going to happen. “Maybe he was out of his mind or something,” he said.
He said, “This situation certainly looks like a soft coup or a semi-coup. “It’s like the Korean version of the 2021 U.S. Capitol riot,” he said.“The declaration of martial law as a response to the deadlocked ruling party and opposition party is just a nonsensical justification. “It is suspicious that martial law is being declared late at night when half of the people are asleep,” he argued.
He added,“It is indeed shockingly incompetent. In fact,it seems impulsive that President Yoon made this decision.”
Professor Kelly conducted a video interview with the BBC in March 2017 about the situation on the Korean Peninsula during the ‘presidential impeachment’ phase. At that time, during the interview, the door behind Professor Kelly opened and the children came in. Professor Kelly apologized with an embarrassed expression.Professor Kelly’s wife was even filmed running over and taking the children out.
This scene was delivered to viewers live. The children’s innocent appearance was met with comments of ‘lovely’.
Hyewon Lee, Donga.com Reporter [email protected]
rnrn
-
- great
- 0dog
-
- I’m sad
- 0dog
-
- I’m angry
- 0dog
Hot news now
What are the potential consequences of President Yoon Seok-yeol’s declaration of martial law for South Korea’s democracy?
Interview: Time.news Editor with Professor Robert Kelly on Recent Political Turmoil in south Korea
Editor: Good day, Professor Kelly! It’s a pleasure to have you with us again to discuss the unfolding political situation in South Korea.Your insights during previous events were invaluable. Let’s delve right into it. Recently, President Yoon Seok-yeol declared martial law. Can you shed some light on what prompted this situation?
Professor Kelly: Thank you for having me. The current declaration of martial law appears to stem from a significant deadlock between the ruling party and the opposition. It’s a rather alarming move, and many observers, including myself, might even liken it to a soft coup—a reaction driven by desperation rather than democratic principles.
Editor: That’s a striking comparison. You mentioned in a previous interview that the situation resembles the U.S. Capitol riot in 2021. Can you elaborate on this analogy?
Professor Kelly: Yes, absolutely. Both events represent moments of intense political crisis wherein leaders resort to extraordinary measures in a bid to maintain control. The declaration felt impulsive and lacks clear justification. Just as we witnessed in the U.S.with leaders clinging to power amidst scrutiny, President Yoon’s actions reflect a troubling trend in dealing with political discord.
Editor: It’s certainly a concerning trend. In your recent interview with CNN, you remarked on the late-night timing of the martial law announcement. Why do you think this is significant?
Professor Kelly: Timing is crucial in politics. Issuing such a significant declaration while most citizens are asleep raises suspicions. It suggests a lack of transparency and respect for democratic processes. When actions of this magnitude are taken under the cover of night, it evokes a sense of urgency that most might perceive as insidious.
Editor: You’ve described the situation as “shockingly incompetent.” What specific aspects of President Yoon’s leadership do you think contribute to these failures?
Professor Kelly: I believe President Yoon’s approach to governance has been impulsive and reactionary, particularly in times of crisis. His earlier moments of public display—such as singing ‘American Pie’ at a White House dinner—seemed trivial at the time, yet they contrast sharply with the gravity of his recent decisions. It’s as if there are two very different personas at play here: one that engages in light-hearted diplomacy and another that haphazardly resorts to martial law amidst domestic turmoil.
Editor: You must have a unique viewpoint considering your previous viral video appearance during a political crisis. Has that experience shaped your perspective on current events?
Professor Kelly: Indeed, my previous experience taught me how quickly narratives can shift in the public eye.the exposure I received emphasized the importance of context, clarity, and the often bizarre nature of politics, especially when family and personal life unexpectedly intertwine with professional roles. The current crisis is no different—it’s a reminder of how precarious political stability can be.
Editor: As tensions continue to rise, what do you foresee for South Korea moving forward? Can the country recover from these declarations of martial law, and what would that recovery entail?
Professor Kelly: Recovery will depend heavily on public response and the opposition’s actions.There’s a pressing need for dialogue and a return to democratic norms. The people of South Korea have historically shown resilience; however,they must demand accountability and transparency from their leaders. A collective push towards genuine governance rather than authoritarian impulses will be vital for moving forward.
Editor: Thank you so much for these insights, Professor Kelly. Your analysis is invaluable as we navigate this complex political landscape. We look forward to hearing from you again.
Professor Kelly: Thank you! I appreciate the chance to discuss these critical issues. Let’s hope for a resolution that prioritizes democracy and the voice of the citizens.
—
This engaging dialogue aims to present Professor Kelly’s views while together encouraging reflection on the current political situation in South Korea.