South Korean President Faces Calls to Resign After Attempt to Impose Martial Law Fails

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is under mounting pressure to resign following a controversial and short-lived attempt to impose martial law, marking one of the gravest political crises in the nation’s modern democratic history. The move, swiftly overturned by lawmakers, sparked widespread protests and raised alarm among international allies, including the United States.

Yoon’s declaration, citing threats from North Korea and “anti-state forces,” was announced late Tuesday night and would have been the first martial law imposed in South Korea in over four decades. However, it was rescinded early Wednesday morning after 190 lawmakers defied security forces to enter the National Assembly and unanimously voted to nullify the order.

The president acknowledged the parliament’s authority in a televised address at 4:30 a.m. local time, stating, “We will accept the National Assembly’s request and lift the martial law through the Cabinet meeting.”

Domestic and International Fallout

The backlash has been swift and widespread. The opposition Democratic Party accused Yoon of attempting an “insurrection” and demanded his immediate resignation, threatening to initiate impeachment proceedings if he refused. Protesters flooded the streets, and the nation’s largest labor union called for an indefinite general strike until Yoon steps down.

Even within Yoon’s ruling People Power Party, there was sharp criticism. Party leaders described the situation as “tragic” and called for accountability for those involved in the martial law attempt.

Adding to the political turmoil, senior aides to the president reportedly offered to resign en masse, according to Yonhap News Agency.

U.S. and Global Reactions

The United States, which maintains nearly 30,000 troops in South Korea, initially expressed deep concern over the martial law declaration but later welcomed its quick reversal. The dramatic events have raised questions among South Korea’s global allies about the stability of Yoon’s administration, which has been in office since 2022.

Uncertain Political Future

As of Wednesday morning, President Yoon had yet to make a public appearance following his address. His presidency now hangs in the balance, with opposition leaders, labor groups, and even members of his own party calling for his resignation.

The failed martial law bid underscores growing tensions within South Korea’s political landscape and raises significant concerns about the future of Yoon’s leadership amid mounting public discontent.