South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol is at the heart of a political firestorm following his controversial declaration of martial law earlier this week.
The move has ignited widespread public outrage and intensified calls for his resignation.
Facing potential impeachment, President Yoon issued a public apology but refrained from stepping down. In a brief televised address, he expressed regret, stating, “I am very sorry and would like to sincerely apologise to the people who were shocked. Regarding the declaration of martial law, I will not avoid any legal or political responsibility.”
The martial law decree, announced late Tuesday night, was justified by Yoon as a response to threats from “anti-state forces” and North Korea. However, opposition lawmakers and political analysts have dismissed this rationale, accusing Yoon of attempting to consolidate power amidst declining approval ratings and ongoing corruption allegations.
Parliament swiftly overturned the decree, with lawmakers defying security forces to convene and vote against it. Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung strongly criticised Yoon’s apology, calling it insufficient and a betrayal of public trust.
“The greatest risk facing South Korea right now is the very existence of the president,” Lee said, pledging to push for an impeachment vote on Saturday.
Within Yoon’s ruling People Power Party, dissent has grown. Party leader Han Dong-hoon told reporters, “It has become impossible for Yoon to continue his normal duty. His early resignation is inevitable.”
Public reaction across South Korea has been one of anger and disbelief. Yang Soonsil, a seafood vendor at Seoul’s Namdaemun Market, described her fear during the martial law declaration. “I have lost complete trust in him as a president. We need to fight until the end,” she said. Another Seoul resident, Han Jungmo, dismissed Yoon’s apology as inadequate, stating, “He must either step down voluntarily or be impeached. This president has broken trust with the people.”
The martial law declaration, which lasted only six hours before being repealed, has left South Korea grappling with uncertainty about its political future. Lawmakers reportedly remain on high alert, wary of any further attempts to impose military rule.
