South Korean President’s Martial Law Declaration Sparks Political Crisis
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In a stunning move that has plunged South Korea into political turmoil, President Yoon Suk Yeol’s announcement of martial law has prompted calls for resignation from multiple cabinet members.
On Tuesday evening, President Yoon surprised the nation by declaring a state of martial law. The abrupt decision immediately triggered a wave of opposition, with South Korea’s parliament swiftly convening an emergency meeting to challenge the president’s decree.
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo held a meeting with President Yoon’s cabinet, where several ministers, including Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok and Education Minister Lee Ju-ho, expressed their intention to resign.
“I have no intention of continuing in my post,” declared Justice Minister Park Sung-jae following the meeting.
Prime Minister Han urged the ministers to reconsider, emphasizing the importance of continuing their public service during this time of crisis.
“I ask the cabinet to fulfill your responsibility together with public officials in all ministries to ensure that public safety and daily life are maintained without the slightest hesitation,” he pleaded.
Prime Minister Han reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people, stating, “Until the last moment, I will serve the people by gathering the wisdom of our cabinet members.”
By the early hours of Wednesday morning, the South Korean parliament successfully revoked the martial law declaration, effectively ending President Yoon’s controversial decree.
President Yoon subsequently announced the official lifting of martial law in South Korea, attempting to quell the growing unrest. However, the damage had been done.
The opposition party in South Korea has now initiated a formal effort to impeach President Yoon, citing his unilateral declaration of martial law as grounds for removal from office. The political landscape in South Korea remains volatile, with the future of President Yoon’s leadership hanging in the balance.
What triggered the intense protests that led to President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law?
## South Korean Political Crisis: An Interview
**(Host):** Joining us today is Dr. Lee Ji-hye, a leading expert on South Korean politics from Seoul National University, to discuss the shocking news of President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law. Dr. Lee, can you shed some light on the situation for our viewers?
**(Dr. Lee):** This is unprecedented in recent South Korean history. President Yoon’s move comes after a night of intense protests sparked by [reason for protests not provided in search results]. While the exact motivations remain unclear, it’s evident this decision has triggered a deep political crisis. [[1](https://news.sky.com/story/why-was-martial-law-declared-in-south-korea-13266092)]
**(Host):** We saw reports of cabinet members calling for the President’s resignation. How widespread is this dissent within the government?
**(Dr. Lee):** There is significant unease within the ruling party and the cabinet. The fact that MPs voted to block the martial law declaration speaks volumes about the level of opposition from within. This situation is fluid, and it remains to be seen how the President will navigate this intense backlash.
**(Host):** What are the potential consequences of this unprecedented move?
**(Dr Lee):** The ramifications are profound. The international community is expressing concern, and this could potentially damage South Korea’s reputation on the global stage. Domestically, we are likely to see continued unrest and possibly a prolonged period of political instability.
**(Host):** Dr. Lee, thank you for sharing your insights on this developing story. We will continue to follow this situation closely.