Martial law and impeachment: Key facts about the crisis facing South Korea’s president

South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol is embroiled in a significant political crisis following his controversial decision to impose martial law and deploy armed forces in the capital, Seoul. Although Yoon apologised on Saturday, the unexpected declaration has ignited widespread outrage among citizens. Here are the things you need to know about the K- drama that unfolded.
What happened
President Yoon Suk Yeol declared “emergency martial law” in South Korea on Tuesday and called it off after widespread criticism.
In a swift response, the National assembly convened to overturn the martial law, labeling it both unconstitutional and unwarranted. Opposition lawmakers have initiated impeachment proceedings against Yoon, accusing him of overstepping his authority and failing to provide substantial evidence for his claims of “anti-state forces” threatening national security.
Amidst this chaos, thousands of citizens, including union members, have taken to the streets to demand Yoon’s resignation.
What is martial law
Martial law is the replacement of civilian government by military rule and the suspension of civilian legal processes.
It imposes severe restrictions, including a ban on public gatherings, strikes, and political activity. It also places media outlets and healthcare workers under military control.
Yoon apologises
In the apology issued by Yoon in a televised address to the nation on Saturday, he said “I am very sorry and would like to sincerely apologise to the people”. “I leave it up to my party to take steps to stabilise the political situation in the future, including the issue of my term in office”, he added.
“Han Dong-hoon, leader of Yoon’s People power party (PPP), quickly reacted, stating that the president was no longer able to carry out his duties and that his resignation had become ‘unavoidable.’
What next
Should the impeachment motion succeed, the matter will be referred to the Constitutional court, which will assess whether Yoon should be removed from office.
If Yoon is impeached, the prime minister will assume his responsibilities temporarily until the Constitutional court reaches a decision. However, the court’s proceedings may face delays due to vacancies among its members, adding another layer of complexity to the current political crisis.
A troubling past
This situation also resurrects troubling memories of South Korea’s past struggles with martial law, a historical tactic used to stifle dissent. South Korea has been through 16 instances of martial law during its early decades under dictators. South Korea transitioned to democracy in 1988, holding its first free presidential election under public pressure.
South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of martial law was the first such measure in the past 45 years. It is why President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of martial law was particularly triggering and prompted such a reaction.