Han Dong-hoon Photo: Getty images
The leader of South Korea’s ruling People’s Power Party (PPP), Han Dong-hoon, announced his resignation on Monday, two days after the country’s parliament passed a resolution to impeach President Yun Seok-yol. The president lost his post because of an attempt to impose short-term martial law. This was reported by AFP.
“I am resigning as party chairman and offer my sincere apologies to all those who have suffered due to the imposition of martial law,” Han Dong-hoon said during an urgent press conference broadcast live.
The South Korean parliament passed the impeachment of President Yun Seok-yol on Saturday. The reason was the events of 3 December, when the head of state suddenly imposed martial law, citing difficulties with budget approval.
Yun Seok-yeol shocked the country by declaring martial law on the night of 3-4 December. However, six hours later, under pressure from the parliament and mass protests in the streets, it was forced to be lifted.
This political scandal has shaken South Korea and caused widespread criticism among the population. The opposition called the president’s actions an “authoritarian attempt to usurp power”, while his supporters point to the difficult economic situation that could have pushed Yoon to take radical steps.
Han Dong-hoon’s resignation was an additional blow to the ruling party, which is already in a state of political crisis. The party is expected to hold internal elections in the near future, and the political situation in the country will remain tense.
