South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol’s Martial Law Decision

• South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced martial law on Tuesday night, a move aimed at protecting South Korea from North Korean communist forces and eliminating pro-North Korean and anti-state forces.

• The decision triggered protests and a 190-0 vote against the measure by lawmakers.

• Following the vote, Yoon reversed his decision and the personnel were withdrawn.

• The opposition has moved an impeachment motion against Yoon, with a two-thirds majority vote revoked Yoon’s powers and he put on trial.

• Yoon’s power has been shaky, with the opposition Democratic Party (DP) taking control of the National Assembly.

• Yoon’s approval rating fell below 20% in 2022, and his legislative push at the assembly was blocked by the opposition.

• Public resentment increased amid a housing crisis and high unemployment.

• Yoon’s sudden turnaround in the face of protests and legislative pushback is seen as a reprieve for South Koreans.

• The decision to declare martial law despite a violent history points to deeper problems in the country.

• Yoon should resign without waiting for the impeachment proceedings and let the country elect a new leader.