Jailed ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol urges supporters to rally for freedom, defends martial law declaration as South Korea marks one year since political crisis
SEOUL: Ousted former South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol issued a rallying cry from prison on Wednesday, marking one year since his declaration of martial law.
In a statement delivered by his lawyers, Yoon urged supporters to “rise again in defence of the Republic of Korea’s freedom”.
He defended his decision to suspend civilian rule on December 3, 2024, as a justified fight against “pro-China, pro-North Korea, and traitorous activities”.
Yoon condemned his successor, President Lee Jae Myung, as presiding over an “unjust and corrupt dictatorship”.
The former leader is on trial for insurrection and could face the death penalty if convicted.
President Lee issued his own statement, saying South Korea had “overcome an unprecedented crisis of democracy in world history through peaceful means”.
Lee acknowledged the country remains deeply divided, stating “national unity is my priority”.
He is due to attend a rally outside the National Assembly, where lawmakers defied soldiers to vote down the martial law bid a year ago.
Seoul police expect at least 2,000 people at the rally, the first of its kind near the legislature since the 2024 crisis.
Hundreds of Yoon’s supporters gathered nearby in sub-zero temperatures, holding placards demanding his release and Lee’s removal.
Yoon’s former party, the People Power Party, remains split over the martial law declaration.
Party floor leader Song Eon-seog apologised for failing to prevent the “debacle” that caused public distress.
In contrast, party leader Jang Dong-hyuk wrote that martial law countered “an act of parliamentary tyranny”.
Political commentator Park Sang-byung said much of the right continues to share Yoon’s stance to maintain party power.
Yoon’s legal troubles have bolstered his martyr image among far-right supporters.
His wife is also in custody on trial for bribery, stock-market rigging, and accepting luxury gifts.
Two dozen of Yoon’s associates, including former ministers, face insurrection charges.
All court hearings related to the martial law declaration are scheduled to conclude by February. – AFP
