After a huge public outcry over the controversial martial law declaration,South-Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol apologized just hours before the impeachment vote, pledging to respect democratic principles.
Yoon Suk Yeol Apologizes for Martial Law Decision, Faces Legal and Political Consequences
In his first public appearance since rescinding the martial law order on Wednesday, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a heartfelt apology to the public for the shock and anxiety his decision caused. Speaking candidly, Yoon stated that his martial law move was made out of desperation and emphasized that he would not seek to avoid legal or political responsibility for his actions.
The apology came just hours before a planned impeachment vote, intensifying the political pressure on his administration. Yoon took full responsibility for the controversial decision, assuring the nation that he would uphold democratic principles moving forward. His vow to avoid similar actions and restore public trust in his leadership is seen as a crucial step amid growing concerns over the government’s handling of dissent.
Yoon further clarified that his political future would be determined by his party, the People Power Party (PPP), while expressing his commitment to face any consequences stemming from the controversial decision. Immediately following his address, PPP leader Han Dong-hun called for Yoon’s resignation, arguing that the president was no longer fit for office. In response, opposition lawmakers filed an impeachment motion, though it remains uncertain whether they can secure the necessary two-thirds majority to pass it. The president’s apology and the unfolding political developments have set the stage for a tense period in South Korean politics.
South Korean President Yoon Faces Impeachment as Political Crisis Deepens
As the political crisis surrounding South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol intensifies, opposition lawmakers have moved forward with an impeachment motion in response to his controversial martial law attempt. The motion, however, faces significant challenges, as it requires the support of two-thirds of the National Assembly, or at least 200 out of 300 votes. Currently, the opposition parties hold 192 seats, meaning they would need to gain support from members of Yoon’s own People Power Party (PPP).
PPP Leader Calls for Suspension of Yoon’s Powers Amid Growing Political Divisions
The situation took a dramatic turn when the leader of the PPP(People Power Party) Han Dong-hun, publicly called for suspending Yoon’s constitutional powers, labeling him unfit for office. This declaration came after 18 members of the PPP joined the opposition in a vote to cancel the martial law decree, just hours after Yoon had declared it. The swift vote, which passed 190-0, highlighted the political divisions within the ruling party and the growing dissatisfaction with Yoon’s leadership.
South Korean National Assembly to Decide President Yoon’s Fate with Impeachment Vote and Special Prosecutor Appointment
The South Korean National Assembly is set to convene at 5 p.m. to vote on two critical issues that could decide the future of President Yoon Suk Yeol. First, lawmakers will vote on appointing a special prosecutor to investigate allegations concerning Yoon’s wife, followed by a key vote on whether to proceed with the impeachment motion. These decisions hold significant weight in determining whether President Yoon can retain his authority or whether his presidency will face a formal challenge. The outcome will have major implications for the political landscape in South Korea.
PPP Rejects Impeachment Despite Han Dong-hun’s Warnings on President Yoon’s Actions
The PPP has firmly decided to oppose impeachment efforts against President Yoon, disregarding urgent calls from Han Dong-hun, a key figure within the party. Although Han, who has no voting power, expressed grave concerns over Yoon’s actions, including a controversial order to arrest political figures during martial law, the party remains resistant to the move. Han claims that Yoon’s potential misuse of power could endanger national security, but the PPP continues to back the president, citing a lack of sufficient justification for impeachment.
Growing Calls for Yoon’s Resignation as Protests Intensify Over Martial Law Decree
As tensions rise in South Korea, some PPP members have urged President Yoon to resign to avoid a repeat of the 2016 impeachment of former President Park Geun-hye, which ultimately led to the collapse of the party. This time, protests are escalating with thousands of demonstrators outside parliament, demanding Yoon’s impeachment and holding candlelight vigils reminiscent of past protests.
The situation has drawn widespread attention, with prosecutors, police, and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials launching investigations into Yoon and senior officials involved in the controversial martial law decree. Allegations of insurrection and abuse of power are at the center of these probes, fueling the growing political crisis.
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