Tengrinews.kz - Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun has announced his resignation, taking full responsibility for the recent declaration of martial law by President Yoon Seok-yeol, according to Dimsum Daily.
In his statement, the defense minister expressed regret for the confusion caused and confirmed that all military actions were carried out under his leadership.
"I feel sorry and deeply responsible for causing confusion and concern to the people regarding emergency martial law," he said.
As the publication notes, the South Korean defense minister made the resignation statement amid the opposition's filing of a petition to impeach the country's president. The document was submitted to parliament on the afternoon of December 4, and a vote must now take place within 24-72 hours after the draft is considered at a meeting.
If the impeachment of the president is approved, the Constitutional Court will have to make a decision within six months. During this period, Yoon Seok-yeol will be suspended from his duties, and South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will take over as the country's interim leader.
Recall: on the evening of December 3, South Korean President Yoon Seok-yeol declared a state of emergency. This decision was made after the opposition Democratic Party supported a bill on a reduced budget in parliament and filed a motion to impeach the state auditor and chief prosecutor. However, the National Assembly of South Korea voted against the introduction of martial law in the country.
Later, President Yoon Suk Yeol announced the cancellation of martial law, just hours after implementing it on the evening of December 3.
Meanwhile, the Kazakh Embassy in South Korea issued an announcement for Kazakh citizens in connection with the current situation. Our citizens were urged to remain calm, strictly follow the recommendations of local authorities and refrain from participating in mass events.
