Han Dong-hoon (C), leader of the ruling People Power Party, answers reporters’ questions at the National Assembly in Seoul after President Yoon Suk Yeol lifted emergency martial law. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Dec. 4 (Korea Bizwire) — The leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) urged President Yoon Suk Yeol to explain his decision that declared emergency martial law and to sack Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun over what he calls a “disastrous situation.”
Han Dong-hoon made the remark after Yoon lifted martial law in a Cabinet meeting early Wednesday after the National Assembly voted to block the decree.
Yoon said his declaration of martial law was aimed at “eradicating anti-state forces,” accusing the opposition of “paralyzing” the government with impeachment motions against public officials and reducing the proposed national budget.
“As the ruling party, we feel deeply apologetic to the public for today’s disastrous situation,” Han told reporters at the National Assembly.
“President Yoon should directly explain the disastrous situation and hold those responsible strictly accountable, including the immediate dismissal of the defense minister who proposed the martial law,” he added.
Kim, a former head of the Presidential Security Service and close aide to Yoon, was inaugurated as the defense minister in September. The defense ministry confirmed Kim proposed the martial law to Yoon.
Han said his party will work to minimize the impact on the nation’s economy and diplomacy, vowing to thoroughly investigate the situation and take necessary measures.
(Yonhap)
