North Korea has criticised South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed bid to impose martial law, equating it to a military coup and accusing him of attempting to establish a “fascist dictatorship”.
An article in Wednesday’s edition of North Korea’s state newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, condemned Yoon’s “insane act” as reminiscent of a coup during the era of military dictatorships. The article claimed he “brazenly brandished blades and guns of fascist dictatorship at his own people.”
The Rodong Sinmun article asserted that recent events in Seoul have exposed the frailty of South Korean society. It described Yoon’s abrupt martial law declaration as a sign of desperation that could prematurely end his political career.
North Korea, under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, is regarded by the international community as a dictatorship. The Kim family has ruled the isolated nation for decades, fostering a personality cult that depicts them as near-divine figures.
President Yoon’s unexpected declaration last week alleged that sympathisers of North Korea were trying to destabilise his administration. His political future remains uncertain, with his party members resisting calls for his impeachment.
Yoon’s brief imposition of martial law plunged the country into political chaos. Although he remains in office, he has been prohibited from leaving the country while under investigation for treason. It is unclear what, if any, authority he retains.
Han Dong-hoon, leader of Yoon’s party, announced that Yoon would withdraw from state affairs until arrangements for his early departure are finalised, though such a roadmap is not expected until the end of the week.
The defence ministry confirmed that Yoon still commands the armed forces, yet the special warfare commander indicated that his troops would not comply with any new martial law orders.
An impeachment attempt over the weekend failed after Yoon’s ruling People Power Party boycotted the anonymous vote. However, the opposition Democratic Party, holding a parliamentary majority, has vowed to continue pursuing impeachment, with another vote anticipated on Saturday. They need at least eight members of Yoon’s party to join them for the two-thirds majority required in the 300-seat parliament to impeach the president.
Frances Ibiefo
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