On December 3rd, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol unexpectedly declared martial law throughout the country, a decision that sent South Korean citizens into a state of shock and panic. Although there had been tension brewing between the President and his people in the months leading up to this decision, South Koreans were still shocked at this unprecedented move, as there was no real public safety threat at hand. In attempts to justify this alarming and uncalled-for use of military force, Suk-yeol reported political gridlock and threats against his administration from “out of control” investigators. This announcement shocked and enraged many South Korean legislatures, as speculation soon arose around Suk-yeol’s reasoning and intentions.
Accusations targeted toward the president centered on the theory that Suk-yeol only declared martial law with the intent to detain his political opponents. In the months leading up to this incident, Suk-yeol faced political opposition that resulted in numerous of his bills not being passed, as well as attempts to impeach his cabinet members.
Regardless of his motives, Yoon’s decision led to significant political turmoil within South Korea and its citizens, with many concerned it would disrupt the very foundation of the nation’s democracy. Memories of the last enactment of martial law came flooding back for many older citizens, as this had been the first since 1980 which led South Korea into a period of severe economic depression. In fears of history repeating itself, South Koreans turned to peaceful protests. Over one million citizens were recorded protesting outside the National Assembly, pushing for Yoon Suk-yeol’s resignation/removal from office. Videos have also been circulating on social media of countless South Koreans dancing and singing to popular K-pop songs in a form of peaceful protest.
Due to the extreme lack of widespread violence and threats to public safety, lawmakers quickly moved to nullify his decree, with 190 lawmakers voting to reject the law – many of which were from Yoon’s very own People Power Party. Through parliament’s majority vote, the president was soon required to lift the martial law. After being met with such resistance and backlash from the South Korean people, he released a statement to the National Assembly stating, “I will respect the decision of the National Assembly and the will of the people”. Despite this announcement, calls for his impeachment and resignation persisted. Much of Yoon’s political opposition claimed his act of impulsiveness was an attempt to undermine the democratic institutions of South Korea.
On Saturday, December 14th, an impeachment bill was passed, officially stripping away Yoon Suk-yeol’s presidential powers. The constitutional court has six months to decide whether to reinstate Yoon or uphold the impeachment. In the meantime, Yoon’s constitutional powers will be transferred to Prime Minister Han Duck Soo who was very clear in his belief that “Defending illegal martial law is a betrayal of the country, the people, the conservative spirit, and the achievements of our party that achieved industrialization and democratization,”.
As South Korea awaits the Constitutional Court’s ruling, peaceful protests continue to flourish, and the unwavering civic engagement of its people stands as a powerful testament to the strength and maturity of South Korea’s democracy. The swiftness and grace in which this situation was handled by citizens and lawmakers, offers hope for a more united, brighter future.
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