The South Korean opposition bloc has denounced President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of emergency martial law, linking the controversial move to the ongoing investigation into First Lady Kim Keon-hee. The opposition bloc framed the declaration as a politically motivated tactic to divert attention from a special counsel investigation set to be revisited on Dec. 10. The ruling People Power Party (PPP) leadership, however, has refrained from taking a definitive position on the matter, further stoking speculation. PPP leader Han Dong-hoon addressed mounting criticism over his party’s perceived indecision during a Dec. 3 statement, saying, “Exercising caution on matters of great consequence should not be mistaken for hesitation.”
The special prosecutor bill, spearheaded by the leading opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) and passed on Nov. 14, focuses on allegations involving the Deutsche Motors stock manipulation case and claims tied to alleged political broker Myung Tae-kyun. Under the legislation, special prosecutor nominees would be recommended by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, effectively granting the opposition veto power. This represents a significant revision from the DPK’s earlier proposal, which included a broader investigative mandate and allowed only the opposition to nominate candidates. Analysts interpret the adjustments as an attempt to secue support from dissenting PPP lawmakers.
Initially, the PPP strongly opposed the special counsel initiative. However, internal discord within the ruling party, including public disputes on party platforms, has led some leaders to adopt a more cautious approach. Calls for strategic ambiguity have grown, with insiders suggesting the party wait to assess the political landscape before the upcoming re-vote. A political observer noted, “The sudden martial law declaration, coming just a week ahead of the re-vote, inevitably redirects public attention to the first lady.”
Since President Yoon Suk-yeol’s inauguration in May 2022, First Lady Kim Keon-hee has faced persistent scrutiny, often referred to as the “Kim Keon-hee risk.” Allegations ranging from her alleged involvement in the Deutsche Motors stock manipulation case to controversies over luxury gifts, such as a Dior handbag, have intensified public criticism despite prosecutors dismissing the claims as baseless. The Myung Tae-kyun scandal has further compounded these challenges, prompting growing calls within the ruling bloc for a more proactive response.
In a rare public apology on Nov. 7, President Yoon acknowledged the growing discontent, stating, “Neither my wife nor I have acted appropriately,” while also accusing critics of engaging in character attacks against the first lady. Less than a month later, during a sudden national address on Dec. 3, President Yoon declared emergency martial law, a move that has since ignited debate over its potential impact on the administration’s credibility.
