South Korea's political landscape was thrown into unprecedented turmoil on Saturday as President Yoon Suk Yeol issued a public apology but stopped short of resigning, hours before a critical impeachment vote that could suspend him from office.
In a brief televised address lasting just over two minutes, Yoon bowed deeply before cameras and expressed remorse for his decision to declare martial law earlier this week, acknowledging it had caused "anxiety and discomfort" among South Koreans. The martial law decree, which Yoon described as born from "desperation," was rescinded after less than six hours amid fierce backlash.
The president's political isolation deepened dramatically on Friday when Han Dong-hoon, the leader of Yoon's own People Power Party (PPP), turned against him. "It has become impossible for him to carry out normal duty as president," Han declared, urging Yoon to step down. Military leaders also dealt Yoon a significant blow, stating they would not obey any future martial law orders.
The National Assembly's impeachment vote, scheduled for Saturday, requires a two-thirds majority to pass. With the opposition controlling the chamber, only eight defectors from Yoon's party would be needed to impeach him.
The political crisis has intensified South Korea's economic challenges. The country's stock market ranks among the world's worst performers this year, while its currency has weakened substantially against the dollar. Economic growth has stagnated, with just 0.1% expansion in the third quarter following a 0.2% contraction in the second quarter.
Additional pressure comes from shifts in U.S. trade policy and concerns over potential tariffs that could impact South Korea's crucial export sector. The country now exports more to the United States than to China for the first time in over two decades.
Behind the current crisis lies a series of controversies that have plagued Yoon's presidency since his narrow election victory in 2022. These include his handling of a Halloween crowd crush that killed 158 people, allegations of corruption involving his wife, and disputes over a marine's death during a rescue mission.
If impeached, Yoon would be suspended from office pending a Constitutional Court decision on whether to reinstate or remove him. Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would assume presidential duties during this period. The opposition has also called for police to investigate Yoon on insurgency charges, which could carry severe penalties if proven.
As South Korea grapples with this constitutional crisis, massive demonstrations are planned for Saturday, with unions and opposition groups mobilizing against the president. The outcome of the impeachment vote could determine not just Yoon's political future, but the direction of one of Asia's most vibrant democracies.
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