4th December 2024 – (Seoul) South Korea’s Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun announced his resignation today, taking full responsibility for the recent emergency martial law declaration by President Yoon Suk Yeol. In his statement, released at 6.13pm, Kim expressed regret for the confusion caused during this turbulent period and affirmed that all military personnel acted under his direction.
Kim’s resignation follows the Democratic Party of Korea’s submission of an impeachment motion against him earlier that day. He stated, “I feel sorry and deeply responsible for causing confusion and concern to the people regarding emergency martial law.” He acknowledged the challenges facing the Ministry of National Defense and pledged to maintain stability in ongoing operations.
President Yoon’s political future appears increasingly precarious after his brief attempt to impose martial law, which has drawn widespread public outcry. The country’s largest union has called for strikes until Yoon resigns, and numerous protests have echoed demands for his departure. Key officials, including Yoon’s chief of staff, have also submitted resignations.
Should Yoon step down, analysts suggest that impeachment may become unnecessary, although elections would still need to occur within 60 days. If he remains in office, the threat of impeachment looms large, with six opposition parties now backing a motion against him. The Democratic Party has even initiated plans to pursue treason charges against Yoon and his ministers.
The forthcoming impeachment bill is expected to be presented to the National Assembly, with voting likely by the end of the week. Under South Korean law, a parliamentary majority is required to propose impeachment, and two-thirds approval from the 300-member legislature is needed to pass it. The Democratic Party, alongside minor opposition parties and independents, holds 192 seats, indicating they would require support from at least eight members of Yoon’s People Power Party.
If the impeachment passes, the Constitutional Court must reach a decision within six months. During this period, Yoon would be suspended from his duties, with Prime Minister Han Duck-soo stepping in as interim leader.