नेपाल सम्वत् ११४४ थिंलाथ्वः १२(२७ मंसिर , २०८१) डिसेम्बर १२, २०२४ , बिहिबार, बाँपीझ्याला । South Korea is facing significant political instability following President Yoon Suk Yeol’s controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, the first such decree in over four decades. The fallout has led to high-profile arrests, suicide attempts, and ongoing investigations, paralyzing the nation’s governance and shaking public confidence.
Former Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun, a key figure in the martial law case, attempted suicide while in detention but was stopped and is now in stable condition. Kim was arrested for alleged abuse of power and his role in deploying troops to block lawmakers from voting on the martial law decree. The decree was ultimately rejected by parliament, forcing the government to lift it by December 4. Alongside Kim, senior police officials, including National Police Agency Commissioner General Cho Ji Ho, have been detained for deploying forces to obstruct legislative proceedings.
The Democratic Party, the main liberal opposition, plans to submit another impeachment motion against President Yoon, after an earlier attempt failed. If successful, Yoon’s powers would be suspended pending a Constitutional Court decision. Yoon’s apology on December 7 and his willingness to accept political responsibility have not mitigated public outrage. His ruling party’s proposal to manage state affairs independently of Yoon has drawn criticism for being impractical and unconstitutional, raising questions about leadership stability.
Investigations are now focusing on whether Yoon and his associates committed rebellion, a crime carrying a potential death sentence. This crisis comes amid heightened tensions with North Korea, which has called Yoon a “traitor” and his military “gangsters” in its state media. Meanwhile, the U.S. has reaffirmed its commitment to the U.S.-South Korea alliance, emphasizing stability in the Korean Peninsula.
The martial law decree, viewed as unconstitutional by experts, has exposed deep political divides in South Korea. Critics argue Yoon’s order to deploy troops to disrupt parliament breached constitutional limits. Testimonies from military officials suggest Yoon personally ordered aggressive measures against lawmakers. The unfolding crisis could result in Yoon’s impeachment and a possible early presidential election, adding to South Korea’s political uncertainty.
