South Korea’s Ruling Party Backs Yoon’s Impeachment Over Martial Law Fiasco

South Korea’s ruling People Power Party (PPP) has reversed its stance and now supports impeaching President Yoon Suk Yeol, dramatically increasing the likelihood of his removal from office, CNN reports.

The announcement came just before Yoon delivered a speech defending his ill-fated decision to declare martial law, a move that sparked widespread public anger and a political crisis.

The PPP’s initial reluctance to pursue impeachment stemmed from the hope that Yoon would resign.

Yoon’s declaration of martial law on December 3, accusing the opposition Democratic Party of “anti-state activities” and sympathizing with North Korea, was met with shock and outrage. Lawmakers blocked the move within hours, but the damage had been done.

Calls for impeachment intensified as protesters and opposition figures demanded Yoon’s resignation. Even within his own party and the military, support for Yoon waned. Police launched a treason investigation into Yoon and other officials, and lawmakers approved a special counsel to probe whether he abused his power.

In his speech on Thursday, Yoon defended his actions, claiming his brief martial law declaration aimed to break a political stalemate. He accused the opposition of “siding with North Korea,” a charge they deny. However, the PPP’s shift towards impeachment suggests Yoon’s defense has failed to convince his own party.

The main opposition Democratic Party is preparing a new impeachment motion, with a vote expected as soon as Saturday. Last weekend, Yoon survived an impeachment bid after PPP members boycotted the vote. But with the ruling party now supporting impeachment, PPP lawmakers are free to vote “according to their belief and conscience.”