During a recent court hearing, South Korea's suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol attributed his decision to declare martial law to the behavior of his political opponents. Speaking on February 11, Yoon contended that the refusal of opposition lawmakers to acknowledge him with applause or even a handshake revealed their deeper intent to dismantle his government.
The former prosecutor recounted that his martial law move on December 3, which briefly suspended civilian rule and involved deploying soldiers to parliament, was a necessary response to what he perceived as the opposition's disruptive actions. However, his declaration was short-lived when a parliament led by his critics voted against the measure and eventually impeached him, resulting in heightened political instability.
Yoon argued that the basic principles of respectful dialogue were violated in parliament, pointing out that many opposition members avoided the main hall during his budget speech, leaving him to address a half-empty venue. He also highlighted that, during another parliamentary address, some members deliberately turned away from him and refused a handshake, an act he interpreted as an intentional slight aimed at weakening his government.
Labeling the opposition as "anti-state elements" bent on insurrection, Yoon insisted that his martial law decree was essential to protect South Korea’s constitutional framework. As he continues to be shuttled between prison and the Constitutional Court hearings, the judiciary prepares to make a final decision that could confirm his impeachment and set the stage for a new presidential election within the next 60 days.
8 Comments
Pupsik
Yoon's speech is full of contradictions. He wants respect but won't acknowledge the opposition's legitimate concerns? Hypocrite!
Marishka
The impeachment process is politically motivated. The left can't handle the fact that they lost the election, so they're trying to remove him from office illegally.
Pupsik
The real anti-state elements here are those who undermine the democratic process with martial law. Shame on you, Yoon!
Marishka
This is a dark day for South Korea. Let's hope the impeachment goes through and we can begin to heal this nation.
Pupsik
Let's not let the opposition's lies and propaganda divide us. We need to unite behind our leader and overcome this challenge.
Noir Black
Claiming to protect the constitution with martial law is like saying you're saving the patient by killing them. Ridiculous!
Eugene Alta
South Korea deserves a leader who respects the rule of law, not one who tries to circumvent it with brute force.
Noir Black
We're confident that President Yoon will be reinstated and continue to lead South Korea toward a brighter future.