Yoon Seok-yeol Photo: Yonhap/EPA
South Korean President Yun Sook-yol has categorically rejected accusations of mutiny, calling the imposition of martial law a “political decision to protect the nation”. He said this in a televised address, Reuters reported on Thursday, 12 December.
Yun Seok-yol said he used his presidential powers to declare martial law “to protect the country and normalise state affairs”, which he said had been paralysed by the opposition. The president stressed that the decision was “well thought out”.
“I will confront honestly”
The South Korean president said he was not afraid of impeachment or investigation against him.
“Regardless of whether I am impeached or investigated, I will honestly confront it,” Yoon Seok-yol said.
The investigation is ongoing
South Korean police have searched the headquarters of the Joint Chiefs of Staff near the presidential administration. According to Yonhap, law enforcement officials are looking for documents that could confirm the connection between the presidential security service and preparations for martial law.
In particular, investigators are trying to gain access to the secure mobile phone of former Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun, which was allegedly used to communicate with the president during this period.
Political crisis
Yoon Seok-yol’s refusal to resign increases political tensions in the country, and the issue of his impeachment becomes a key one in the parliament. The opposition accuses the president of abusing his power, while Yoon insists that his actions are legitimate.
This situation is becoming one of the most acute political confrontations in South Korea in recent years.
