Amidst mounting pressure, South Korea’s President Moon Jae-in faces growing calls for his resignation after his proposal to implement martial law was met with widespread condemnation from opposition parties, civic groups, and even members of his own ruling party.

On Sunday, President Moon announced his intention to declare martial law in the capital, Seoul, following violent protests over the controversial nomination of Cho Kuk as Justice Minister. Moon’s decision was seen by many as a heavy-handed response to the unrest and a violation of the country’s democratic principles.

The proposal sparked outrage across South Korea. The main opposition party, the Liberty Korea Party, immediately denounced the move as a “coup d’état” and called for Moon’s resignation. Civic groups, including the Korean Bar Association, also voiced strong opposition, warning that martial law would undermine the rule of law.

As pressure mounted, Moon was forced to withdraw his martial law proposal on Monday. However, the damage had already been done. Public trust in the President has plummeted, with opinion polls showing a sharp decline in his approval ratings.

“Moon’s credibility is in tatters,” said Professor Park Won-ho of Seoul National University. “He has lost the moral authority to lead the country.”

With the withdrawal of his martial law proposal, Moon has managed to avert a constitutional crisis for now. However, calls for his resignation continue to grow. The Liberty Korea Party has filed an impeachment motion against Moon, accusing him of abusing his power and violating the constitution.

Some members of Moon’s own Democratic Party have also joined the chorus of voices demanding his resignation. Several lawmakers have openly criticized the President’s handling of the Cho Kuk scandal and his proposed use of martial law.

It remains unclear whether Moon will succumb to the pressure and step down. The President has so far resisted calls for his resignation, vowing to remain in office and address the concerns of the people.

However, the opposition parties have made it clear that they will continue to push for Moon’s removal. The impeachment process is likely to be lengthy and divisive, further destabilizing South Korean politics.

• President Moon Jae-in’s proposal to implement martial law sparked widespread condemnation and led to calls for his resignation.
• Moon has withdrawn his martial law proposal but faces mounting pressure to step down.
• The opposition parties have filed an impeachment motion against Moon, while some members of his own party have also called for his resignation.
• The future of South Korean politics remains uncertain as the impeachment process unfolds.