Political uncertainty in South Korea deepened on Friday with the head of the ruling party calling for the immediate suspension of President Yoon Suk-yeol, significantly increasing the likelihood of his impeachment over an alleged coup attempt.
Opposition parties have earlier voiced alarm over the potential for a second bid by the “agitated” president to declare martial law.
However, Yoon’s special forces commander, Kwak Jong-keun, dismissed such concerns, stating firmly that he would not follow any further orders from the president to mobilise troops.
Acting defence minister Kim Seon-ho also rejected reports of another martial law declaration as untrue and apologised for the turmoil that began on Tuesday.
Previously, ruling People Power Party (PPP) leader Han Dong-hoon had opposed an impeachment motion initiated by the opposition, arguing it would lead to national instability.
But he appeared to reverse his stance on Friday.
“I said yesterday that I would work to block the impeachment bill to avoid further chaos for the people. However, in light of newly revealed evidence, I now believe it is imperative to suspend President Yoon from office to safeguard the country and its citizens,” Han said during an emergency meeting of party leaders.