Impeached President Yoon Justifies Martial Law in Final Trial Address

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol made his final statement at his impeachment trial, defending the martial law decree he issued during a period of national crisis. Speaking before the Constitutional Court, Yoon justified the decree as a desperate measure to alert citizens about what he described as the dangerous actions of an opposition-controlled parliament. He maintained that his decision was driven by a need to preserve order and inform the public of what he called “anti-state acts” committed by opposition forces.

The impeachment, initiated by the liberal opposition-led National Assembly, came in the wake of a tumultuous period marked by political instability, shaken financial markets, and damage to the nation’s international reputation. Yoon, who faces separate rebellion charges that carry severe penalties, has blamed the Democratic Party for instigating the crisis by blocking his policies, impeaching senior officials, and drastically reducing government funding.

During his trial testimony, Yoon also stated his intention to push for broad political reforms and a constitutional revision that would modify the current presidential system should he be reinstated. He hinted at the possibility of stepping down before the end of his term, proposing that such a move could pave the way for a more balanced and reformed political landscape. Meanwhile, heated debates on the future structure of the government have emerged, with some advocating for a parliamentary-style system and others favoring an altered executive framework that might allow for a second presidential term or shared governmental responsibilities.

As the Constitutional Court prepares to deliver its verdict, public demonstrations by both supporters and opponents of the president have underscored the deepening political divide. Whatever the outcome, experts warn that the decision could further polarize South Korean society and may necessitate a national election if Yoon is removed from office.