South Korea’s impeached president appeared before the Constitutional Court to deny allegations that he ordered the military to forcibly remove lawmakers from the National Assembly during a recent political crisis. This marked his first public appearance since being detained over his declaration of martial law, a move that sparked political turmoil in the country.
The president's imposition of martial law on December 3 led to troops and police surrounding the National Assembly. Despite this, lawmakers managed to convene and unanimously reject the decree, prompting the Cabinet to lift the measure the following day.
The president defended his actions, stating that the military presence was a warning to the opposition party, which he accused of obstructing his agenda and impeaching his officials. He referred to the assembly as a 'den of criminals' and vowed to eliminate perceived threats to the state.
Discrepancies emerged as military commanders contradicted the president's claims, alleging that he directly ordered the removal of lawmakers from the assembly. The president, however, denied giving such orders during his court appearance.
The Constitutional Court has until June to decide whether to dismiss the president or reinstate him. Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing to determine if the president and others committed rebellion or abuse of power in connection with the martial law decree.
The president's actions have had far-reaching consequences, impacting diplomatic relations, financial markets, and the country's democratic image. His defiance and the opposition's efforts to remove him have deepened existing divisions within South Korea.
Following a court's approval of an arrest warrant to extend the president's detainment, supporters engaged in violent protests, resulting in injuries to police officers and damage to property.
