South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law only to reverse the move hours later, sparking the biggest political crisis the country has faced in decades. Troops entered the National Assembly building as police and protesters clashed outside after Yoon’s announcement. Opposition parties have submitted a motion to impeach the president, with a vote expected to be held as soon as Friday.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson postponed his visit to South Korea, and protesters outside the National Assembly demanded Yoon’s arrest and resignation. Stock markets in South Korea opened down around 2% following the crisis. The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions has called for strikes until Yoon resigns, and other protests are expected.
The President’s cabinet members have filed to resign, and six opposition parties have submitted a bill to impeach Yoon. The National Assembly can impeach the president if more than two-thirds of lawmakers vote for it. The crisis has caused international alarm, with the US Secretary of State urging the peaceful resolution of political disagreements.
South Korea has been a democracy since the 1980s and is a US ally and major Asian economy. The crisis has caused confusion among South Koreans, who are relieved but still in shock and angry at the attempt to undermine democratic progress. The situation remains uncertain as Yoon appears determined to hold on to power, despite mounting pressure for his resignation.
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