South Korea’s Ruling Party Leader Calls for Justice in Yoon Suk Yeol Martial Law Probe
In a bold speech to South Korea’s National Assembly, the leader of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) has urged everyone to treat the ongoing special counsel investigation into former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed martial law attempt as a quest for truth, not political payback. Rep. Jung Chung-rae delivered this message during his first policy address since President Lee Jae Myung took office in June, as Yoon faces trial for leading an insurrection through his December bid to impose martial law.
Jung made it clear: "Dealing with the insurrection isn’t about revenge—it’s about finally settling our history." He stressed that both ruling and opposition parties, along with conservatives and progressives, need to come together for a thorough probe into what really happened and hold those responsible accountable. "This must be our starting point," he added, pushing for strict punishment to close this dark chapter.
The speech comes amid intense scrutiny of Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law charges, which shocked the nation last December. Jung called on lawmakers to quickly pass three key revision bills. These would extend special counsel investigations into Yoon’s actions, allegations against his wife Kim Keon Hee, and a controversial 2023 military probe into a young Marine’s death. Such moves could uncover more details and ensure justice in these high-profile South Korea political scandals.
Turning to the main opposition People Power Party (PPP)—the conservative group Yoon left after his impeachment—Jung demanded a public apology. He wants them to cut all ties with pro-martial law forces. According to Yonhap news agency, Jung warned that if the PPP doesn’t distance itself from those linked to the insurrection, it could face a constitutional trial. That might even lead to the party’s dissolution as an "unconstitutional" organization.
The DP has long accused the PPP of protecting Yoon. For instance, most PPP lawmakers boycotted the vote to end the December 3 martial law declaration and later opposed his impeachment. This has fueled tensions in South Korea’s divided politics.
Jung didn’t stop there. He promised to drive reforms in the prosecution, judiciary, and media through new laws. The DP is championing bills to break up the prosecution’s central headquarters and create fresh agencies to handle investigations and indictments. At the same time, he backed President Lee’s economic plans to boost growth and tackle everyday challenges for South Koreans.
As the special counsel probe into Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law bid continues, Jung’s words highlight a push for accountability and unity. Will the opposition step up? Stay tuned as South Korea navigates these turbulent times.
