A wave of resignations has swept through the senior ranks of South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol’s administration, including his Chief of Staff, following the National Assembly’s rejection of his martial law order.
On December 4, the South Korean Presidential Office confirmed that Chief of Staff Chung Jin-suk, National Security Adviser Shin Won-sik, Chief of Policy Office Sung Tae-yoon, and seven other senior officials submitted their resignations. These actions came shortly after President Yoon announced his cabinet’s unanimous decision to rescind the martial law order declared the previous evening.
A Controversial Move
Late on December 3, President Yoon made the unprecedented decision to declare martial law—an action not seen in South Korea for over 40 years. He accused opposition parties of engaging in activities that could benefit North Korea and undermine national security. However, the declaration was met with swift and strong opposition.
In an extraordinary overnight session, the South Korean National Assembly convened to block the martial law order. Their vote effectively ended the measure within six hours, further intensifying political tensions.
Growing Calls for Resignation
The fallout from the martial law declaration has placed significant pressure on President Yoon. Critics have labeled his decision “unconstitutional,” with some lawmakers demanding a detailed explanation and his resignation. Protesters gathered outside the National Assembly in Seoul on the morning of December 4, calling for his impeachment and immediate removal from office. Meanwhile, South Korea’s largest labor union announced plans for a strike until President Yoon steps down.
Political Turmoil and Declining Support
Since taking office in 2022 as a member of the conservative People’s Power Party, Yoon Suk-yeol has faced numerous challenges. His presidency has been marked by rising tensions with North Korea, strained relations between the U.S. and China, and a rapidly declining birthrate. Yoon has adopted a hardline stance on North Korea, departing from his predecessor Moon Jae-in’s focus on dialogue and reconciliation, even suggesting preemptive strikes if necessary.
However, his approval ratings have faltered amid ongoing controversies. Recently, prosecutors investigated allegations that Yoon’s wife accepted illegal luxury gifts, further damaging his public image.
The President has yet to comment on the resignations or the growing calls for his departure. A planned public appearance on the morning of December 4 was canceled, leaving South Koreans and the international community awaiting his next move.
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Source: Vietnam Insider