South Korea’s parliament is set to vote on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment tomorrow amid escalating political tensions following allegations of an attempted martial law declaration. This development marks a critical moment in South Korea’s political landscape.
On Friday, Han Dong-hoon, chairman of the ruling People’s Power Party (PPP), called for President Yoon’s immediate removal, asserting that Yoon’s actions posed a significant danger to the nation. Han claimed Yoon ordered the military to arrest opposition politicians as part of a failed plan to impose martial law.
“There is great concern that if Yoon Suk Yeol continues as president, extreme measures such as emergency martial law may recur,” Han said.
Two senior PPP lawmakers, Cho Kyoung-tae and Ahn Cheol-soo, have officially announced their intention to vote in favor of impeachment. Only eight votes from PPP members are required to meet the threshold, as 192 opposition and independent lawmakers already support the motion.
Yoon remains silent
Following speculation of renewed martial law, Defence Minister Kim Seon-ho held a press conference to dismiss the rumors. He assured the public that neither the defense ministry nor the Joint Chiefs of Staff would comply with such orders and emphasized their cooperation with ongoing investigations.
President Yoon has refrained from making public statements since the alleged martial law declaration on Tuesday night. Sources within the ruling party claimed the declaration was intended as a warning to opposition lawmakers obstructing legislative efforts.
The impeachment vote is scheduled for Saturday at 7:00 PM, though South Korean media has hinted it could occur earlier.
Korean Confederation of Trade Unions responds
In response to the martial law attempt, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU) initiated a strike and called for Yoon’s immediate dismissal. The union stressed the ruling party’s decisive role in shaping South Korea’s future.
“The martial law attack on December 3 clearly confirmed that Yoon Suk Yeol should not command the South Korean armed forces for another second,” the KCTU declared.
Public outcry and protests
Polling data from Gallup Korea on Friday revealed a significant drop in Yoon’s approval rating to 16%, with 75% of respondents disapproving of his performance. Critics cited his handling of economic issues, and the aftermath of the martial law attempt as primary reasons.
Massive protests are planned in Yeouido, near the National Assembly, where demonstrators will call for Yoon’s resignation. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency announced that streets in the area would be cordoned off to ensure public safety during the rally.
