Yoon Suk Yeol: ‘I will not resign’, martial law was against ‘parliamentary dictatorship’

South Korea’s president rejects accusations of insurrection and vows to fight to the end. Impeachment for Justice Minister and police chief

South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol strenuously defended his decision to impose, and later withdraw, martial law, saying that the intention was to protect democracy from the risk of ‘collapse’ and to counter what he called a ‘parliamentary dictatorship’ of the opposition. In a surprise televised speech, Yoon reiterated that he does not intend to resign, despite the fact that the second vote in parliament for his impeachment is imminent: ‘I will not change my position, even if I am impeached or investigated’.

Accusations and searches at the presidential compound

While Yoon denied that the imposition of martial law was an act of insurrection, the South Korean authorities continued their investigation. Police conducted a new search of the presidential compound, collecting documents and information as part of the investigation into the insurrection.

Impeachment for the Minister of Justice and the police chief

Meanwhile, the National Assembly in Seoul approved impeachment motions for Justice Minister Park Sung Jae and Police Chief Cho Ji Ho, who are accused of supporting the implementation of martial law. Park became the first Justice Minister in South Korea’s constitutional history to be dismissed with 195 votes in favour and 100 against. Cho’s dismissal, on the other hand, saw 202 votes in favour and 88 against. Both officials were relieved of their duties pending the verdict of the Constitutional Court. Cho is also currently in hospital.

Investigations and charges against martial law supporters

Minister Park is accused of participating in cabinet meetings for the implementation of martial law and planning the detention of key figures in advance. The prosecution points out that the minister allegedly acted as if he did not recognise the authority of the National Assembly, aligning himself with President Yoon’s vision of arresting politicians. The police chief, Cho Ji Ho, is accused of abuse of power for blocking the entrance of National Assembly members, preventing them from calling for the lifting of martial law.

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