Opposition calls for South Korean president’s resignation as senior advisors quit

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s unexpected declaration of martial law late Tuesday night has sparked political turmoil, with senior presidential advisors resigning en masse and opposition lawmakers demanding his resignation.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Presidential Secretary Chung Jin-suk, National Security Advisor Shin Won-sik, Chief Political Advisor Sung Tae-yoon, and seven other senior advisors submitted their resignations following Yoon’s controversial move.

The drama unfolded when Yoon, in a televised address, justified imposing martial law by accusing opposition parties of engaging in “anti-state activities.” He claimed the measure was intended to “eliminate pro-North Korean forces and safeguard the constitutional order.” However, his decision was swiftly reversed after the National Assembly held an emergency session and voted overwhelmingly, with 190 lawmakers in favor, to nullify the declaration.

The National Assembly Speaker’s Office confirmed the resolution rendered the martial law “void.” Yoon subsequently convened his cabinet, which approved the decision to lift the martial law order.

Korean opposition demands resignation

The Democratic Party (DP), the largest opposition faction, has called for Yoon’s resignation, framing his actions as unconstitutional and grounds for impeachment.

Speaking on behalf of DP lawmakers during an emergency session, Floor Leader Park Chan-dae stated, “Yoon’s declaration of martial law is a blatant violation of the Constitution. None of the prescribed conditions for martial law were met. This constitutes a grave act of insurrection and warrants impeachment.”

Park warned that if Yoon refuses to step down voluntarily, the party will initiate impeachment proceedings in the legislature.

Yoon’s invocation of martial law comes amid increasing polarization in South Korea’s political landscape, with accusations of government obstruction from opposition parties. The president has blamed the opposition for “hindering the administration’s ability to govern effectively.”

This latest crisis is expected to deepen political divides, with critics accusing Yoon of overreach while his supporters argue the declaration was a necessary response to growing security threats.

The developments mark one of the most significant challenges to Yoon’s presidency, raising questions about his leadership and the stability of South Korea’s political system.