SEOUL - In a stunning turn of events, South Korean prosecutors have launched a significant investigation into President Yoon Suk Yeol and high-profile officials, including his interior and former defense ministers, over a controversial attempt to impose martial law, as reported by Yonhap on December 5.

Former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who resigned following his involvement in the martial law initiative on December 3, is now facing a travel ban while the investigation unfolds. In contrast, President Yoon and the current interior minister are not subject to such restrictions.

Yoon's decision to enact martial law, which lasted a mere six hours, was justified by unspecified threats from “anti-state forces” and what he described as obstruction from political rivals. However, the move quickly faced backlash as South Korea’s Parliament voted against it, prompting Yoon to reverse his decision swiftly.

Adding to the political drama, Han Dong-hoon, leader of the ruling party, has publicly requested Yoon to resign from the party, asserting that the party does not endorse the president's controversial actions. “We are not looking to defend the president's unconstitutional martial law,” he stated during a press conference.

The ruling People Power Party faces a critical moment as the opposition aims to impeach Yoon, requiring eight lawmakers from the ruling party to side with them for the impeachment motion to pass. Mr. Choo Kyung-ho, the floor leader of the ruling party, declared his commitment to unify all 108 lawmakers against the impeachment attempt, emphasizing, “We will not let the opposition's efforts succeed.

A vote on the impeachment is set for December 7. Should the motion gain enough support, Yoon would be suspended pending the Constitutional Court's verdict. If the court rules in favor of the impeachment, South Korea will witness a rush to new elections within 60 days, sending shockwaves through the already volatile political landscape.

As the nation holds its breath, can Yoon Suk Yeol navigate this political labyrinth unscathed? Or will his presidency be abruptly brought to a close? Stay tuned for further developments!