The Korean Confederation of Trade Unions has launched an indefinite general strike, demanding the resignation of President Yoon Suk Yeol, signaling a significant political crisis in South Korea.
At a Glance
- South Korea’s largest labor union demands President Yoon’s resignation through a general strike.
- The strike began following a controversial martial law declaration by the president.
- Political and economic instability follows the martial law announcement and subsequent retraction.
- South Korea’s won currency saw a sharp decline post-declaration.
Union’s Call for Resignation
South Korea’s largest labor union, the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions, commenced an indefinite general strike demanding President Yoon Suk Yeol’s resignation. The move followed Yoon’s controversial declaration of martial law, which he rescinded shortly after six hours of implementation. With over 1.2 million members, the union stands firm against what it terms “irrational and anti-democratic measures,” showing significant public discontent with the ruling administration.
The union, demanding democratic safeguards and opposing autocratic tendencies, suspended most of its work operations until their demands are met. Rationalizing the strike, they cited Yoon’s actions as having “declared the end of (his) own power” in a dramatic and unprecedented move in the country’s modern democratic history.
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
Martial Law Sparks Controversy
President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday, rationalizing it as a protective measure against North Korea and internal threats. It marked the first martial law declaration since the country’s democratization in 1987, bringing economic turmoil as the South Korean won plummeted to its lowest level since October 2022. Political leaders and citizens alike criticized the president’s decision, questioning the justification and necessity of martial law at this time.
Opposition parties initiated a motion to impeach President Yoon, set to be voted on as political analysts highlight his diminishing approval ratings. This movement illustrates the severity of political fracture rivalling significant precedents in South Korea’s post-war history.
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 Fallout
The immediate aftershocks of the political crisis brought about resignations from ten senior aides, including the chief of staff. Meanwhile, the legislative movement towards impeachment reveals President Yoon’s vulnerability in governing without a parliament majority, potentially qualifying him as a “lame-duck president.”
The manifold repercussions also stirred nationwide protests, emphasizing citizens’ resistance against a shift from democratic norms. As the eyes of the world focus on this tumult, stakeholders are vested in a diplomatic course of resolution that sustains democratic integrity.
Sources
1. S. Korea’s Main Labour Union Group Calls ‘General Strike’ Until Yoon Resigns
