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South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, who is under threat of impeachment in the country, has vowed to fight “until the last minute” to defend himself, while accusing the opposition of causing a “national crisis”.
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in a televised speech Thursday,Yoon saeid,”I will fight with the people until the last minute.”
On the night of the 3rd to the 4th of December, Yoon (63 years old) suddenly announced the imposition of martial law, before being forced just six hours later to withdraw this step under pressure from Parliament and from the street.
The President apologized to the people for his decision. “I apologize again to the people who must have been surprised and worried about the martial law.Please, trust me with my full loyalty to the people,” he said.
though, Yoon confirmed that he will bear all the legal and political consequences of this decision.
“I will not avoid legal and political duty for the declaration of martial law,” he said.
Conversely, the president attacked the opposition-controlled parliament for its intention to vote on a draft law on Saturday with the intention of removing him from office.
“The National Assembly, wich is led by the main opposition party, has become a monster that is destroying the constitutional order of liberal democracy,” said Yoon.
Last Saturday, yoon avoided the first motion for his dismissal submitted by the opposition.
To remove him from office, the motion must receive the votes of 200 delegates out of 300 in the National Assembly. For the first time, all 192 opposition representatives, as well as 3 representatives from the ruling party, supported the motion to dismiss the President.
Source: afp
How does the current political crisis in South Korea compare to past impeachment proceedings?
Interview: South Korean Political Crisis and Impeachment Risks – A Conversation with an Expert
Time.news Editor: Today, we have Dr. Min Jae,a political science expert specializing in South Korean politics,to discuss the tumultuous situation surrounding President Yoon Suk-yeol and the implications of his recent actions. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Min.
Dr. Min Jae: Thank you for having me. It’s a critical moment in South Korea’s political landscape.
Editor: South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol is currently facing impeachment threats. He has publicly vowed to fight “until the last minute.” What does this statement signify in the context of his leadership and the current political surroundings?
dr. Min Jae: President Yoon’s statement indicates a deep commitment to his position, even as pressure mounts. It reflects a broader struggle between the presidency and the opposition-controlled National assembly that is fundamental to South Korea’s democratic system. His declaration can galvanize support from constituents who may perceive the impeachment efforts as politically motivated, especially given the tension between his administration and opposition parties.
Editor: Just recently, he imposed martial law but retracted it within hours amid meaningful public and parliamentary pressure. What are the implications of such a drastic move, and what might it reveal about his leadership style?
Dr. Min Jae: The imposition of martial law, even briefly, shows a willingness to take extreme measures during crises, which can be polarizing. It’s indicative of President Yoon’s frustration with the political impasse and his desire to assert authority. However, retracting the declaration under pressure signals a recognition of the limits of presidential power in a democracy. His apology to the public suggests an acknowledgment of the potential fallout from such an action, which can undermine his credibility.
Editor: Yoon has criticized the National Assembly, referring to it as a “monster destroying the constitutional order.” How does this rhetoric reflect the current political dynamics in South Korea?
Dr. Min Jae: This language is quite charged, signaling Yoon’s intent to frame the opposition as the root of instability. By positioning himself as a defender of democracy, he aims to rally public support. However, such rhetoric risks escalating tensions and could lead to further polarization within the electorate. It also poses risks for governance, as collaborative efforts become increasingly challenging in a divided political landscape.
Editor: The National Assembly requires 200 votes to impeach him, and recent motions have seen support from both opposition and some ruling party members.What does this mean for the future of governance in South Korea?
dr. Min Jae: If the impeachment motion gains significant bipartisan support, it signals a serious concern among lawmakers regarding Yoon’s governance. The possibility that members of his ruling party support his removal illustrates growing dissatisfaction. This situation could lead to a power vacuum, creating instability and complicating policy-making. In such a scenario, we may see increased public protests and a shift in political affiliations as citizens respond to the unfolding crisis.
Editor: For readers looking to understand the potential outcomes of this situation, what practical advice would you offer?
Dr. Min jae: It’s essential for citizens to stay informed and engaged with political developments. Understanding the implications of impeachment proceedings and the power dynamics at play is key. Engaging in public discourse, weather through community forums or social media, can shape opinions and mobilize action. Moreover, looking to past precedents in South Korea can provide insight into potential outcomes and the resilience of democratic institutions in times of crisis.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Min, for your insightful analysis on this pressing issue. The situation continues to evolve, and your expertise helps clarify the complexities of South Korea’s political environment.
Dr. Min Jae: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important issues. it’s crucial to keep the dialog ongoing as we navigate this challenging phase in South korea’s democracy.