Seoul (TDI): Six opposition parties in South Korea jointly submitted a motion on Wednesday to impeach President Yoon Suk-yeol, following his controversial declaration of martial law, which was overturned mere hours after it was imposed.
The impeachment motion is expected to be presented to the National Assembly on Thursday, with voting anticipated between Friday and Saturday, according to Chinese media.
President Yoon’s declaration of martial law late Tuesday night was revoked early Wednesday after parliament, in a rare display of bipartisan unity, voted against the measure during an emergency session.
The decision was greeted with applause and cheers from lawmakers across party lines.
The Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), the country’s main opposition bloc, announced its intention to pursue treason charges against President Yoon and senior officials, including the defense and interior ministers.
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The party described the martial law declaration as an unconstitutional and undemocratic act, underscoring its resolve to seek impeachment.
Meanwhile, senior aides in the presidential office, including Yoon’s chief of staff, tendered their collective resignations on Wednesday, in the wake of the mounting political crisis.
Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, however, expressed his determination to continue serving the nation, acknowledging the public’s anxiety over the developments.
He urged Cabinet members and public officials to prioritize stability and ensure the people’s safety.
Wave of Public Dissent in South Korea
The controversy has also ignited a wave of public dissent, with civic groups rallying in Gwanghwamun Square to demand Yoon’s resignation.
The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, the country’s most influential labor body, announced an indefinite general strike, terming the martial law declaration an affront to democracy and constitutional order.
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As the impeachment motion heads to parliament, South Korea’s political arena remains fraught with uncertainty, with opposition parties pressing for accountability and civic groups intensifying their protests.
