South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been barred from leaving the country after surviving an impeachment motion in parliament. The unprecedented travel ban follows his controversial, albeit unsuccessful, decision to enforce martial law in the country, which sparked widespread concern and debate.
On Monday, the Ministry of Justice confirmed that Yoon had become the first sitting South Korean president to face such a restriction, following his decision to impose martial law earlier this month. The measure was widely criticized as an overreach of executive power and was met with intense opposition from lawmakers and civil society. Yoon’s travel ban has further complicated the political landscape, leaving many questioning his authority and the future direction of his leadership.
In addition to President Yoon, several other high-ranking officials have also been placed under travel bans, including former defense minister Kim Yong-Hyun and ex-interior minister Lee Sang-min, both of whom are currently in detention. Military officials involved in the martial law operation, such as General Park An-su and defense counter-intelligence commander Yeo In-hyung, have also been restricted from traveling abroad.
Despite the growing controversy, President Yoon remains in power, with South Korea’s defense ministry reaffirming that he is still the commander-in-chief of the country’s armed forces. However, his leadership is under increasing scrutiny as tensions with North Korea rise, and questions about his ability to govern effectively linger.
Yoon, who had initially resisted resigning, issued an apology on Monday, expressing regret for the “anxiety and inconvenience” caused to the South Korean public. However, he stopped short of resigning, stating that the decision would be left to his political party. He also offered to take full political and legal responsibility for the misstep.
Constitutional law experts, however, have raised concerns about the legality of Yoon’s continued tenure. Kim Hae-won, a law professor at Pusan National University, suggested that the situation could resemble an unconstitutional soft coup, arguing that there is no constitutional provision for Yoon to remain as president while relinquishing power to unelected party officials.
Opposition parties have vowed to push for another impeachment motion, promising to introduce the proposal in parliament this week. This comes after massive protests outside the National Assembly last weekend, which saw thousands of South Koreans demanding Yoon’s resignation.
The political situation remains volatile, with the country’s leadership facing significant pressure from both opposition lawmakers and public dissatisfaction. The fate of President Yoon’s presidency hangs in the balance, with further protests expected and another impeachment vote looming.
Sources By Agencies
