South Korea’s major labor union launches an indefinite strike demanding President Yoon’s resignation amid his temporary martial law declaration.
At a Glance
- South Korea’s largest labor union demands President Yoon Suk Yeol’s resignation.
- The strike follows Yoon’s brief martial law decision, sparking widespread unrest.
- Significant economic impact, with the South Korean won dropping sharply.
- Political fallout includes senior aides’ resignation offers and a potential impeachment vote.
Union’s Demand for Resignation
The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, influential due to its 1.2 million membership base, announced an indefinite general strike. Their demand is straightforward—the immediate resignation of President Yoon Suk Yeol, following his brief imposition of martial law. The union condemned this move as an “irrational and anti-democratic measure” and a symptom of authoritarian governance.
This strike represents South Korea’s first major response to martial law since the country’s democratization in 1987. President Yoon justified the drastic measure as necessary amid threats from North Korea and perceived “anti-state forces.”
The ITF strongly condemns President Yoon Suk Yeol’s attempt to illegally impose martial law in South Korea.
Our 16.5 million members stand in solidarity with Korean workers in their fight to defend democracy.
Full statement 👇https://t.co/LzwUe6Hyv1 pic.twitter.com/pWMVn5tqeU
— International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) (@ITFglobalunion) December 4, 2024
Economic and Political Ramifications
The decision to declare martial law had immediate repercussions, rattling both the political and economic spheres. The South Korean won plunged to its lowest valuation since October 2022, reflecting ongoing instability. Politically, the declaration led to the offering of resignations from ten senior aides, including the president’s chief of staff.
“Approval rating is under 20%, so he has no strong public backing to help keep him in office to overcome this.” – Robert E. Kelly
Amid these challenges, South Korea’s National Assembly, comprising all six opposition parties, prepared to vote on a motion for President Yoon’s impeachment. A two-thirds majority is required in the legislative body, along with endorsement from six of the nine Constitutional Court justices.
South Korea’s most powerful labor union, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, has declared an indefinite general strike, demanding the immediate resignation of President Yoon Suk Yeol.https://t.co/yGvZCebYEp
— The Korea Herald 코리아헤럴드 (@TheKoreaHerald) December 4, 2024
Public Outcry and International Concerns
The martial law declaration was met with significant public protest. Voices like Andrew Minjun Park criticized the military’s involvement, adding to the political unrest. Former Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-hwa called Yoon’s action “completely unacceptable,” echoing widespread unease across the nation.
The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions maintains the president “declared the end of (his) own power,” signifying a pivotal moment in South Korean politics. The international community closely observes these developments, pondering their implications for regional stability and democratic integrity.
Sources
2. South Korea crisis ‘to disrupt production’ – 4 Dec 2024
