South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Faces Leadership Crisis due to Martial Law Fiasco and Travel Ban

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is under intense scrutiny after a failed attempt to impose martial law, which has sparked widespread dissent within the military and calls for his resignation. On Monday, the justice ministry confirmed that Yoon has been banned from leaving the country as part of a criminal investigation into his role in the December 3rd martial law order, which was rescinded hours later after strong opposition from parliament. Yoon has since apologized for the controversial move but has refused to resign, leaving his fate in the hands of his ruling People Power Party (PPP).

Yoon’s decision to delegate presidential powers to Prime Minister Han Duck-soo amidst the crisis has deepened South Korea’s constitutional uncertainty. The move has been criticized as unconstitutional by opposition parties, who are pushing for impeachment and legal action against the president. The military’s response has been equally divided, with senior officers refusing to follow any future martial law orders and reports emerging of military units being ordered to intervene in the parliamentary vote against the decree.

The political turmoil is also raising concerns for South Korea’s economy, with the finance ministry preparing emergency measures to stabilize markets. Internationally, the crisis has drawn alarm from allies, including the U.S., with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin canceling plans to visit South Korea, citing the political instability. Meanwhile, the U.S. and South Korea remain focused on maintaining a strong alliance, particularly with growing tensions in North Korea and its support for Russia’s war in Ukraine.