Ruling party in South Korea promises President Yoon's resignation

According to Yonhap, PPP leader Han made the statement after a motion submitted to parliament to impeach Yoon over his surprise declaration of martial law on the night of December 3 failed to pass.

Han stated that until Yoon resigns, the prime minister will carry out his duties, and that this will be done in consultation with the party.

Stating that Yoon will eventually "resign in an orderly manner to minimize chaos," Han emphasized that pressure will be placed on the president to step down.

Han noted that they would consult with the main opposition party to ensure this process is conducted "transparently."

Reiterating that the declaration of martial law was a "clear and serious violation of the constitution and laws," Han apologized for his party's boycott of the vote on Yoon's impeachment. "I am very sorry for what happened after the declaration of martial law," Han said.

MARTIAL LAW DECLARATION IN SOUTH KOREA

President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in a televised address on the night of December 3, citing the "opposition's involvement in anti-state activities," but took a step back after parliament voted to lift the decision and it was subsequently approved by the Cabinet.

Accusing the opposition of "preventing the government from functioning," Yoon had argued that martial law was intended to "eliminate pro-North Korean forces and protect the constitutional order of freedom."

Following the declaration of martial law, the Ministry of Defense had instructed commanders in the military to hold a meeting and called for them to be on high alert. Meanwhile, it was reported that soldiers assigned as "martial law troops" had entered the National Assembly.

In an emergency session held at the National Assembly, a motion to lift the martial law decision was accepted with the votes of 190 lawmakers. The Office of the National Assembly Speaker announced that martial law had become "null and void" following the vote.

Upon this, Yoon convened the Cabinet and announced that he had ended martial law following the cabinet's approval.

Yoon accepted the resignation of Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who had suggested he declare martial law, on December 5.

The main opposition Democratic Party (DP) and 5 smaller opposition parties had submitted a motion to parliament to impeach the president on the grounds that Yoon's declaration of martial law was contrary to the constitution and laws.

The motion, which required the approval of 200 lawmakers to pass, was not accepted as it failed to reach the required number of votes.

News Source: AA