South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Faces Calls for Resignation After Martial Law Attempt

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is under immense pressure to step down after his attempt to impose martial law, which was swiftly opposed by lawmakers and sparked mass protests. Yoon’s shocking move, which aimed to curb the perceived threat from North Korea and “anti-state forces,” marked the first attempt to declare martial law in South Korea in over four decades. This led to turmoil in the nation and deepened political unrest.

Yoon, a conservative politician elected in 2022, faced swift backlash after he announced late at night that martial law would be declared in response to North Korea’s nuclear threats and to combat “anti-state” forces, including members of the opposition. In a dramatic turn, over 280 troops, backed by helicopters, arrived at parliament to enforce the martial law. However, 190 lawmakers defied this, entering the parliamentary building and voting to rescind the declaration. This forced Yoon to retract his decision, with the martial law lifted following a parliamentary majority request, in accordance with the constitution.

The incident has led to widespread protests, with thousands taking to the streets and calling for Yoon’s resignation. The largest labor union in South Korea declared an “indefinite general strike” until the president steps down. Additionally, Yoon’s own ruling party condemned the attempt, labeling it “tragic.” The opposition, which holds a majority in parliament, has demanded his immediate resignation and vowed to file charges for “insurrection” against Yoon and other key figures involved in the decision.

While the United States expressed initial concerns over the declaration, it later welcomed Yoon’s decision to lift martial law. The situation also drew reactions from China and Japan, both of which expressed concern over the stability of South Korea.

This attempt to impose martial law follows a period of political tension in South Korea, with Yoon’s approval rating dropping to just 19% due to dissatisfaction with his economic policies and controversies surrounding his wife, Kim Keon Hee. Some analysts believe the martial law move was an effort to “wind history back” and restore authority, but it has instead undermined Yoon’s legitimacy, leaving his future in question.