South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol narrowly survived an impeachment vote in parliament following his declaration of martial law earlier in the week.
The announcement of martial law caused outrage among Korean citizens and caused an intense political crisis.
Despite the martial law declaration being overturned by a majority in the National Assembly, including dissent from 18 members of Yoon’s own conservative People Power Party (PPP), the president has managed to maintain his position for now.
President Yoon was accused of overstepping his constitutional authority and many called for his resignation
Even within his own party, many were unhappy with his decision.
On Saturday evening, however, a significant faction of the PPP chose to close ranks around Yoon. They prioritized their shared goal of preventing a progressive political resurgence.
Party leader Han Dong-hoon expressed the delicate balance within the party, stating:
“We will continue to push for the president’s orderly resignation to minimize confusion.”
Meanwhile, opposition lawmakers intensified their calls for Yoon’s impeachment.
Kim Joon-hyung, a prominent member of the progressive Rebuilding Korea Party, voiced the urgency of removing the president from office.
“The sooner that he resigns or is impeached, the better for our country,” Kim declared.
Opposition leaders have announced their intention to submit another motion for impeachment, with the next vote scheduled for Wednesday, December 11.
President Yoon broke his silence on Saturday with a brief public address.
Speaking to the nation, he apologized for the martial law declaration and acknowledged the shock and distress it had caused.
“This emergency martial law declaration stemmed from my desperation as the ultimate responsible party for state affairs,” Yoon explained in his two-minute statement.
He continued, “I am deeply sorry and sincerely apologize to the citizens who must have been greatly shocked.”
He pledged not to evade the consequences, stating, “I will not avoid the legal and political responsibility related to this martial law declaration.”
