Opposition lawmakers in South Korea moved to impeach President Yoon Suk Yeol after he declared martial law and then lifted the order hours later under intense pressure. The Democratic Party, which controls parliament, led six opposition parties in submitting articles of impeachment against Yoon, citing his administration’s unconstitutional and illegal actions. Impeachment proceedings will also be initiated against Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun and Interior Minister Lee Sang-min, as well as other key military and police officials involved in the martial law declaration.
Yoon’s People Power Party respected the constitution and was discussing his future within the party. The U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, welcomed the decision to lift martial law, emphasizing the importance of resolving political disagreements peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law. The South Korean stock market opened normally following the martial law incident.
Yoon’s approval ratings have dropped as he faces opposition from the Democratic Party. The martial law declaration was made to protect the country’s constitutional order and eradicate anti-state groups, but was swiftly nullified by lawmakers. The incident marks the first time martial law has been declared in South Korea since 1980.
Despite the brief period of martial law, the country’s credit rating is not expected to be affected. The mature response of the military and swift resolution by lawmakers demonstrated South Korea’s commitment to democracy. Yoon’s office confirmed the resignation of his chief of staff and senior presidential secretaries, while the nation looks to move forward from this turbulent event.
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