South Korean leader rejects resignation of Army Chief amid controversial martial law decision

South Korea's Army Chief Gen. Park An-su revealed on December 5 that he had offered his resignation to former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun following President Yoon Suk Yeol's sudden imposition of emergency martial law.

However, President Yoon rejected Park's resignation, citing the need for stable military operations amid a "grave security situation," according to a senior official from the presidential office, Caliber.Az reports, citing Korean media sources.

Park had been appointed to lead the short-lived martial law command after Yoon declared the emergency measure on December 3, only to revoke it hours later when the opposition-controlled National Assembly voted to reject the declaration. The Army chief disclosed this during an emergency session of the parliamentary defence committee, explaining that he had tendered his resignation the day before.

While Park's resignation was rejected, the president accepted the resignation of Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun. Kim had reportedly recommended the imposition of martial law and had ordered the military to deploy to the National Assembly. The opposition has called for an investigation into both Kim and Park, but current police investigations appear focused only on the president's actions.

In parallel, South Korean police have initiated a treason investigation into President Yoon, following complaints from the opposition party "Revival of Korea" and a group of 59 activists. The accusations of state treason also target Kim Yong-hyun, Army Chief of Staff Gen. Park An-su, and Interior Minister Lee Sang-min.

Yoon's declaration of martial law on December 3 was justified by his administration as a response to the opposition's alleged involvement in "anti-state activities." Following military orders to enforce martial law, troops entered the National Assembly. However, after the Assembly voted to lift martial law, it became null and void. Subsequently, Yoon convened a cabinet meeting, officially annulling the decree after receiving approval.

By Tamilla Hasanova