South Korea’s political scene is in turmoil as the largest labor union calls for a general strike demanding the President’s resignation.
At a Glance
- The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions initiated an indefinite strike demanding President Yoon Suk Yeol’s resignation.
- The strike was triggered by Yoon’s brief imposition of martial law, later rescinded.
- This marks the first martial law declaration in South Korea since 1987.
- Yoon’s low approval ratings have fueled impeachment discussions.
Union’s Stand Against President Yoon
The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions has launched a general strike demanding the resignation of President Yoon Suk Yeol. This significant political move follows Yoon’s contentious martial law declaration, which the union condemned as an “irrational and anti-democratic measure.” The union, boasting 1.2 million members, is not just protesting labor issues but is challenging perceived authoritarian governance.
The union’s calls for action have rallied many who view Yoon’s policies as crossing the line. The economic implications are profound, with the South Korean won dipping to its lowest since October 2022, further stressing the nation’s financial stability and public confidence.
#BREAKING South Korea's main labour union group calls 'general strike' until President Yoon resigns pic.twitter.com/l5hm8SM2Ui
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) December 3, 2024
Political Repercussions
The political fallout from Yoon’s brief martial law decree has been intense. Coming just hours after Yoon attempted to justify martial law as necessary for national security against perceived threats, protests erupted across the country. Key officials close to Yoon offered their resignations, signaling a crisis within his administration. Former foreign minister Kang Kyung-hwa described the President’s actions as “completely unacceptable.”
All six opposition parties have filed a motion to impeach Yoon, reflecting a broad consensus against his leadership. With impeachment proceedings looming, the political landscape in South Korea is at a critical juncture that could significantly alter the nation’s trajectory.
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
Implications for South Korea’s Stability
The tension underscores a larger debate about democracy and governance in South Korea. Yoon’s lack of a legislative majority and low approval ratings have labeled him a “lame-duck president.” Political analyst Robert E. Kelly highlighted that Yoon’s approval rating is under 20%, leaving him vulnerable to political maneuvers aimed at his removal.
“Approval rating is under 20%, so he has no strong public backing to help keep him in office to overcome this.” – Robert E. Kelly
This general strike and the political unrest it embodies raise serious questions about national stability. The situation continues to develop, with close global scrutiny on how South Korea resolves this profound political challenge.
Sources
1. S. Korea’s Main Labour Union Group Calls ‘General Strike’ Until Yoon Resigns
