US Reaffirms ‘Ironclad’ Alliance with South Korea Following Yoon Suk Yeol’s Impeachment

"After South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment over martial law declaration, the US emphasizes democratic resilience and strong bilateral ties."

Washington, DC [US], December 15: The United States has reiterated its unwavering support for South Korea and its democratic processes in the wake of President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment. This development follows a contentious move by Yoon to declare martial law, which triggered his removal by the National Assembly.

Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the US Department of State, described the US-ROK alliance as “ironclad” and highlighted the significant progress made in recent years. "Our commitment to the US-ROK alliance is ironclad. In recent years, that alliance has made enormous strides," Miller said.

He also affirmed the US’s readiness to work with Acting President Han Duck-soo and the South Korean government to advance shared interests and values. "We stand ready to continue this work with Acting President Han Duck-soo and the ROK government," Miller added.

US Secretary of State Speaks on South Korea’s Crisis

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking in Jordan, commended South Korea for demonstrating democratic resilience amidst the political turmoil. “The most important thing is that Korea has demonstrated its democratic resilience. It has peacefully followed the process laid out in its constitution,” Blinken said.

Blinken underscored the US’s steadfast commitment to the Korean people and the bilateral alliance. "We strongly support the Korean people and the ironclad alliance that has done so much over the last few years," he added.

South Korea’s Political Turmoil

South Korea is undergoing a period of political upheaval following Yoon Suk Yeol’s controversial declaration of martial law. On Saturday, the National Assembly impeached the President in a 204-85 vote, with three abstentions and eight invalid ballots. The impeachment process required a two-thirds majority, which was achieved after all 300 members of the unicameral assembly cast their votes.

Yoon’s impeachment immediately suspended him from office while the Constitutional Court deliberates his fate. During this period, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo has assumed the role of interim president, as reported by Al Jazeera.

This marks the second impeachment vote against Yoon in eight days, underscoring the political challenges facing South Korea.

US-Korea Relations Stay Strong

Despite the crisis, US officials remain committed to their partnership with South Korea. The US-ROK alliance continues to play a crucial role in regional stability and shared democratic values, with Washington signaling its readiness to collaborate with South Korea’s interim leadership.