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South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared he will "fight to the end" amid growing political turmoil following his controversial martial law declaration on December 3rd. The six-hour decree triggered massive protests and an impeachment process that continues to threaten his presidency.
In a defiant televised address Thursday, Yoon defended his actions as necessary to protect democracy. He characterized the opposition Democratic Party as "anti-state forces" attempting to paralyze the government and undermine constitutional order.
The martial law episode involved nearly 300 soldiers attempting to encircle parliament and the National Election Commission. Yoon claimed the troop deployment was meant to maintain order, not dissolve legislative activities.
Opposition parties quickly condemned Yoon's statement. Democratic Party spokesperson Kim Min-seok called it "an expression of extreme delusion" and a potential attempt to incite riots by far-right supporters.
The political landscape remains volatile. Opposition parties hold 192 parliamentary seats, just eight votes short of the two-thirds majority required for impeachment. A new impeachment motion is scheduled for Saturday's vote.
Yoon faces multiple investigations into potential rebellion and abuse of power charges. Law enforcement authorities are examining whether his martial law declaration constituted an illegal act. A rebellion conviction could carry a maximum death penalty.
The president's former defense minister, Kim Yong Hyun, was arrested Wednesday for alleged rebellion involvement. Kim reportedly attempted suicide while in detention but is now in stable condition.
Travel restrictions have been imposed on Yoon and several senior officials involved in the martial law incident. The National Assembly has also passed motions to impeach the national police chief and justice minister.
If impeached, Yoon's presidential powers would be suspended pending a Constitutional Court decision. A successful removal would trigger a new presidential election within 60 days.
The martial law declaration lasted only six hours after the National Assembly unanimously voted it down. Yoon initially apologized for the move but has since adopted a more confrontational stance.
Political analysts view Yoon as a "lame duck" president since his party's significant losses in April's general election. His government has struggled to pass legislation and faces increasing opposition pressure.
