South Korea’s President Yoon vows to “fight to the end” amid crisis

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has defended his controversial decision to declare martial law last week, calling it necessary to protect the country’s democracy. In a surprise televised address, Yoon explained that the action was a legal measure to prevent the collapse of democracy and counter the opposition’s “parliamentary dictatorship.”

Yoon firmly stated he would not step down ahead of a second impeachment vote in parliament, set for Saturday. “I will stand firm whether I’m impeached or investigated,” he declared, vowing to fight to the end.

His administration faces multiple investigations into charges of insurrection, and several officials, including allies, have been banned from leaving the country. Despite this, Yoon rejected claims that his martial law order was an act of insurrection. Instead, he accused political opponents of inciting false charges to bring him down.

This address, Yoon’s first since apologizing over the weekend, echoed arguments he made when declaring martial law. He reiterated that his move was necessary to protect the public and defend democracy. He also made it clear that he would not avoid his “legal and political responsibilities.”

The opposition’s attempt to impeach Yoon failed last weekend after members of his own ruling party boycotted the vote. However, opposition lawmakers are set to try again this Saturday, with plans to hold a vote every week until Yoon is removed from office.

Yoon’s party had hoped he would resign early, but party leader Han Dong-hoon confirmed that the president was not stepping aside. He urged party members to vote for impeachment on Saturday.

If the impeachment passes, a trial will be held in the constitutional court, and two-thirds of the court would need to uphold the decision for Yoon to be permanently removed.

Since the opposition’s landslide victory in April, Yoon has struggled to pass laws, often vetoing bills proposed by the opposition. He also accused North Korea sympathizers of attempting to destabilize his government.

His declaration of martial law sparked protests and a violent standoff at the National Assembly. While lawmakers blocked the order, Yoon withdrew it hours later. The country remains in political turmoil, with ongoing protests calling for his impeachment.

In a tragic turn, former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun, who took responsibility for the martial law order, attempted suicide while in detention. He is now in stable condition.

 Yoon Vows to ‘Fight to the End’”