South Korea is currently engulfed in political turmoil following President Yoon Suk Yeol's controversial declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024. This unexpected move aimed at suppressing what Yoon described as pro-North Korea forces sparked instant backlash, leading to his impeachment just over one week later. The events surrounding this crisis have underscored the fragility of South Korea’s political processes and tested the resilience of its democracy.
On December 3, at 22:25, President Yoon announced he would impose martial law, asserting the need to “eradicate pro-North Korea forces and protect constitutional order.” This marked the first declaration of martial law since South Korea transitioned to democracy nearly four decades ago. Moments later, the National Assembly, facing intimidation from special forces, managed to convene and passed a resolution to lift the martial law by unanimous 190-0 vote within three hours.
The swift actions of lawmakers were commendable yet alarming, highlighting the urgent need to address Yoon’s threats and his subsequent political isolation. Yoon’s decision plunged the country back to civil unrest, reminiscent of its military dictatorship past. The declaration fueled immediate investigations by multiple bodies, including the Supreme Prosecutors’ Office and National Assembly, aiming to get to the bottom of this constitutional crisis.
Although Yoon attempted to justify his actions by blaming political rivals, his declaration was perceived as overreach and led to widespread calls for his resignation. On December 14, amid mounting pressure from both the opposition and within his ruling People Power Party (PPP), the National Assembly impeached him with 204 votes affirming the motion against 85 opposed.
While Yoon’s political future hung by a thread, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo was appointed as acting president. Yet, scenarios took another turn when Han himself faced impeachment, replaced by Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok due to his handling of the impasse over appointing Constitutional Court justices and other legislative matters. Remarkably, the political upheaval exemplified the volatility of leadership roles within the South Korean administration.
With the backdrop of this rapidly changing political arena, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik emerged as an unexpected beacon of leadership. Historically, this role lacked significant influence but has been redefined through Woo’s decisive actions during the crisis. Scaling fences and urging lawmakers to follow constitutional protocols, he successfully led the assembly through tumultuous times, reflecting the strength and resilience of South Korea's legislative body. Voters have even dubbed him “National Assembly Thor,” emphasizing his newfound reputation as a leader committed to order amid chaos.
Given the public’s growing trust, with over 56 percent expressing confidence in Woo, his role has become emblematic of hope as South Korea navigates through this crisis. Political columnist Yoo Junghoon praised Woo’s methodical approach, stating, “Seeing someone like him step up and act decisively was refreshing.” his adherence to proper procedures saved the assembly from descending even more deeply to chaos during Yoon’s martial law announcement.
The situation became even more spotlighted internationally due to its potential impact on the geopolitics of East Asia. The Biden administration had previously viewed South Korea, under Yoon’s leadership, as a model democracy, strategically significant for its alliances against North Korea and China. Now, with Yoon suspended from power, concerns have arisen over the country’s political stability affecting regional security dynamics.
Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting, “The memory of previous experiences of martial law have a deep and negative resonance in South Korea.” This tumultuous political backdrop not only looks precarious for the South Korean populace but also signals complications for U.S. policy interests within the area. If Yoon’s impeachment goes through as expected, South Korea could face elections within 60 days, potentially marking the rise of opposition leader Lee Jae-myung. Unlike Yoon, Lee’s perspective on Japan has been skeptical, likely unwinding diplomatic relations between Seoul and Tokyo, central to U.S. strategy.
Prior to this crisis, the trilateral ties formed among the U.S., South Korea, and Japan were strengthening, with commitments made between leaders aimed at ensuring regional security against North Korea and China. Yoon's willingness to confront historical tensions and improve relations with Japan was beneficial for U.S. strategy. Now, the prospect of Lee’s leadership raises questions about the continuity of foreign policy directions.
There’s also historical precedence worth noting, as South Korea has dealt with impeachment processes before, experiencing three such instances since 2004. The Constitutional Court will now undertake to review the latest impeachment case with significant urgency, expected to decide within 180 days on Yoon’s fate. If upheld, South Koreans can expect yet another election to either affirm new leadership or witness Yoon’s return—albeit one significantly diminished and marred by his martial law declarations.
Throughout this chaotic chapter, Woo’s perspective remains grounded as he emphasizes constitutional reforms are long overdue. He shared, “The current constitution, drafted in 1987, is outdated. Reforms reflecting the societal changes of the past four decades are needed.” His words resonate strongly as South Koreans hunger for stability, reminding them of their strength and resilience, even amid visible government crises.
“South Korea is strong. Its people are resilient,” Woo reassured citizens globally during this politically charged atmosphere. With collective hope for calm returning to South Korean politics, the situation highlights not only the fragility of democracy but also the persistent strength and determination of its people to safeguard constitutional order.
