South Korean authorities have imposed a travel ban on President Yoon Suk Yeol as investigations continue into his brief declaration of martial law last Tuesday.
President Yoon narrowly avoided impeachment over the weekend after members of his ruling People Power Party (PPP) boycotted the parliamentary vote. The PPP explained their decision, stating Yoon had agreed to shorten his term and step back from all foreign and domestic affairs.
However, the opposition Democratic Party (DP), which holds a parliamentary majority, condemned the deal. DP floor leader Park Chan-dae called it “an illegal, unconstitutional second coup,” sparking further political tension.
Widespread Protests and Resignations
The martial law declaration has triggered mass protests, with tens of thousands of citizens demanding Yoon’s resignation or impeachment. Despite the failed impeachment motion, several senior officials involved in the order have faced serious consequences:
Former Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who allegedly proposed the martial law, was arrested on Sunday after resigning and apologizing earlier in the week.
Travel bans have been issued for Kim, Defence Counterintelligence Commander Yeo In-hyung, and Army Chief of Staff Park An-su.
Former Interior Minister Lee Sang-min also stepped down, acknowledging his failure to serve the president and the public effectively.
On Wednesday, senior aides, including Yoon’s chief of staff, resigned en masse hours after martial law was lifted.
Opposition Criticizes PPP’s Proposal
In a Sunday address, PPP leader Han Dong-hoon announced that Prime Minister Han Duck-soo would manage government affairs while Yoon refrains from state duties until his early resignation. Han emphasized that Yoon would not be involved in diplomacy or governance during this transitional period.
However, the opposition strongly rejected this plan. DP floor leader Park Chan-dae labeled it “an unconstitutional second coup”, criticizing the ruling party’s unilateral move. Representative Kim Min-seok argued that no authority had been granted to the prime minister and PPP leader to exercise presidential powers.
According to South Korea’s Ministry of National Defence, Yoon still retains command of the armed forces, allowing him to make executive decisions in response to foreign threats, including those from North Korea. Political experts warn that Yoon could resume full powers at any time.
Apology and Continued Opposition Efforts
In his first public appearance since the incident, President Yoon apologized to the nation on Saturday, promising not to impose martial law again and expressing regret for the “anxiety and inconvenience” caused. Despite this, the Democratic Party vowed to continue pushing for his impeachment, holding weekly votes every Saturday.
Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung addressed supporters after the failed impeachment attempt, pledging to restore normalcy to the country by Christmas. Lee accused Yoon of “destroying” South Korea and its economy and reiterated calls for his immediate resignation.
The situation remains tense as South Korea grapples with political turmoil and public discontent following the controversial martial law declaration.