South Korean president accepts defense minister’s resignation amid backlash over martial law move

Kim resigned on Wednesday shortly after the opposition Democratic Party filed a motion to impeach him. Members of Yoon's own People Power Party had also pushed for his dismissal due to his role in recommending martial law. Taking responsibility for the controversial decision, Kim told reporters in a text message, “All soldiers who executed duties related to the emergency martial law acted under the minister’s orders, and I bear full responsibility.” He also expressed regret for “causing public concern and confusion.”

President Yoon is under mounting pressure to resign after declaring martial law—only to revoke it hours later. On Wednesday, six opposition parties introduced a bill to impeach Yoon, with lawmakers expected to vote on it late Friday or early Saturday. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party announced plans to pursue treason charges against the president. During a rally in Seoul’s Gwanghwamun Square on December 4, protesters carried banners condemning Yoon’s actions, including one that read, "We condemn Yoon Suk Yeol's illegal martial law."

The controversy stems from Yoon’s late-night martial law declaration on Tuesday, where he accused the opposition of collaborating with North Korea and engaging in anti-state activities. His claims were tied to the opposition’s move to impeach key prosecutors and reject a government budget proposal.

Lawmakers overwhelmingly overturned Yoon’s decree just hours after it was announced, with 190 out of 300 parliament members voting against it. Yoon subsequently rescinded the martial law order in the early hours of Wednesday and withdrew the troops.