South Korean President Eun Suk Yeol faces investigation amid martial law controversy

Police are investigating South Korea’s president Yoon Suk YeolHis former defense minister and interior minister for sedition and other crimes related to the recent declaration of martial law.
According to a Reuters report, the investigation follows a complaint by the opposition and activists, confirmed by the national police chief during a parliamentary hearing. Separate complaints have also been filed with the Prosecution and Corruption Investigation Office for high-ranking officials, both of which are considering their own probes. The former defense minister is currently under a travel ban.
Opposition lawmakers announced their intention to impeach President Yoon this Saturday for attempting to impose martial law, which they described as a power grab. The declaration, made late on Tuesday night, called for curbing political activities and censoring the media. It provoked public protests and international concern. The defense minister who advised the announcement has resigned.
“The declaration of emergency martial law by the Yun Suk Yeol regime caused great confusion and fear among our people,” Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Seung-won told the National Assembly.
While the ruling People’s Power Party opposes impeachment, its support is needed for the required two-thirds majority in the 300-seat parliament. The party is currently divided over the position.
President Yoon has accepted the defense minister’s resignation and appointed his ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Choi Byung-hyuk, in his place. The home minister and a senior military officer confirmed that the former defense minister had recommended the declaration of martial law. The Vice Defense Minister testified that he opposed military mobilization and was unaware of the martial law order until it was announced. The army chief has also offered to resign.
The impeachment attempt follows an incident where soldiers tried to enter the National Assembly but were repelled by parliamentary aides. The army commander said there was no intention to use weapons against the public and no live ammunition had been issued. Public protests followed, with people fearing a return to the authoritarian regime of the past. “For the sake of my children, this has to be stopped no matter what,” said one protester. “We cannot go back to the 1970s.” The crisis also had an impact on financial markets.
If impeached, the Constitutional Court will decide whether to uphold the proposal, a process that can take up to 180 days. The Prime Minister will act as leader during any suspension of the Union’s powers. A new election would be required if Yun resigns or is removed. Yun narrowly won the 2022 election, but his approval rating remains low, and the opposition holds a majority in parliament.