Mass protests erupt in South Korea, calls for president Yoon's resignation amid impeachment vote

150,000 people attended a rally outside South Korea's parliament Saturday, Yonhap reported, demanding President Yoon Suk Yeol step down as lawmakers inside struggled to muster the votes to impeach him. (Photo: Agencies)

Protesters shout slogans during a rally demanding South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment following the president's short-lived martial law declaration, in front of the National Assembly in Seoul, South Korea. The signs read, "Impeach Yoon Suk Yeol." AP/PTI

President Yoon Suk Yeol declared “emergency martial law” in South Korea on Tuesday and called it off after widespread criticism.

In a swift response, the National assembly convened to overturn the martial law, labeling it both unconstitutional and unwarranted.

Opposition lawmakers initiated impeachment proceedings against Yoon, accusing him of overstepping his authority and failing to provide substantial evidence for his claims of “anti-state forces” threatening national security. (Agencies)

In a brief televised address, Yoon said he would leave it to his party to chart a course through the country's political turmoil, “including matters related to my term in office."

“The declaration of this martial law was made out of my desperation. But in the course of its implementation, it caused anxiety and inconveniences to the public. I feel very sorry over that and truly apologize to the people who must have been shocked a lot,” Yoon said. (Agencies)

A protestor wears a face mask of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and an inflated body suit during a rally calling for the impeachment of Yeol, who declared martial law, which was reversed hours later, in front of the National Assembly in Seoul, South Korea, December 7, 2024. (REUTERS)

Martial law is the replacement of civilian government by military rule and the suspension of civilian legal processes.It imposes severe restrictions, including a ban on public gatherings, strikes, and political activity. It also places media outlets and healthcare workers under military control. (PTI)