Official announcement from the South Korean National Assembly

South Korea’s President Yoon Faces Impeachment as Ex-Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun Attempts Suicide Amid Martial Law Crisis

Dec 11, 2024, 02:20 PM

South Korea is experiencing a deepening political crisis following President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, at 10:25 p.m. The National Assembly swiftly revoked the martial law hours later, but the fallout continues. On Wednesday, police attempted to raid the presidential office but were blocked by the presidential security service. Former Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun, who is accused of recommending the imposition of martial law, attempted suicide in detention on Tuesday night by using his underwear to make a rope; his life was saved, and he remains in custody on charges of insurrection. The opposition is pushing for a second impeachment motion against President Yoon, with a vote expected on Saturday, and some ruling party members have indicated support. Thousands of protesters have gathered outside Seoul's Parliament, dancing and waving glow sticks to K-Pop, demanding Yoon's resignation and arrest. North Korea has criticized the South Korean government, calling it a "gangster nation" and a "fascist dictatorship." Additionally, allegations have emerged that Kim Yong Hyun ordered the deployment of drones to North Korea to provoke a retaliatory attack to justify martial law. The crisis has raised regional stability concerns, with international observers closely monitoring developments.