South Korea faces a political storm as Defence Minister resigns over a short-lived martial law declaration, parliament moves to impeach the president, and the North Korea-Russia defence pact comes into effect.
South Korea is grappling with an unprecedented political crisis following a failed martial law declaration that briefly saw troops deployed in the capital. The fallout has led to the resignation of Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun, impeachment proceedings against President Yoon Suk-yeol, and an ongoing investigation into potential insurrection. The crisis coincides with the activation of a mutual defence treaty between Russia and North Korea, further amplifying tensions in the region.
Resignation of Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun
- President Yoon Suk-yeol accepted the resignation of Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun after a failed attempt to impose martial law.
- Kim had proposed martial law on Tuesday night, a move swiftly overturned after the South Korean parliament voted for its reversal early Wednesday.
- Troops briefly entered the National Assembly compound in Seoul before being ordered back to their barracks following the reversal.
Choi Byung-hyuk Appointed New Defence Minister
- Yoon nominated Choi Byung-hyuk, South Korea’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia and a retired four-star general, as the new defence minister.
- Choi’s appointment is aimed at restoring stability, with Chief of Staff Chung Jin-suk stating: “Choi will maintain a firm readiness posture based on the robust South Korea-US alliance.”
Opposition Calls for Impeachment
- The Democratic Party, South Korea’s main opposition, labeled Yoon’s martial law attempt a “treasonous act”and initiated impeachment proceedings.
- The ruling People Power Party vowed to block the motion, with floor leader Choo Kyung-ho stating: “All 108 lawmakers of the People Power Party will stay united to reject the president’s impeachment.”
- The opposition needs support from eight governing party lawmakers to secure the required votes for impeachment.
Insurrection Charges Filed Against President Yoon
- South Korean police have opened an investigation into President Yoon Suk-yeol and others involved in the martial law attempt.
- Insurrection charges, which transcend presidential immunity, could carry the death penalty if proven.
International Reactions and Regional Implications
- The US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed support for South Korea, calling it a testament to “democratic resilience.”
- The crisis coincides with the activation of the Russia-North Korea Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty, which includes a mutual defence pact.
- Al Jazeera’s Rob McBride noted the stark contrast between the turmoil in South Korea and the strengthened alliance north of the DMZ, stating:
- “While turmoil grips South Korea, North Korea appears emboldened with its new military pact in place.”
Source: CNN & Al Jazeera.
