The recent political developments in South Korea, including President Yoon Suk-yeol’s abrupt declaration and subsequent lifting of martial law, are causing significant ripples internationally. The U.S. Defense Secretary’s visit to South Korea has been postponed, with the decision being made that it is not the right time for such a visit. Instead, Secretary Lloyd Austin will proceed with his visit to Japan.
Vedant Patel, the Deputy Spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State, highlighted that the impeachment process against President Yoon, triggered by the martial law situation, is an internal matter for South Korea and expected to follow the country’s constitutional procedures. He underscored the U.S. commitment to the alliance and to principles of rule of law and democracy.
In a briefing, Patel assured that the democratic system and processes in South Korea are expected to prevail peacefully and emphasized the enduring nature of the South Korea-U.S. alliance, which surpasses individual administrations. He further emphasized shared values, including a free and open Indo-Pacific region, responsible management of relations with China, and the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.
The postponement of the visit reflects concerns over the martial law declaration, which has raised questions about its implications for individuals’ rights and freedoms. The swift repeal by South Korea’s parliament has been seen as a demonstration of democratic resilience.
Furthermore, strategic meetings like the 4th Korea-U.S. Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) and the 1st NCG Table-Top Exercise have been indefinitely postponed due to the martial law issue.
Despite these challenges, R. Patrick Ryder, a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Defense, clarified that there are no changes to the U.S. military posture in South Korea, and contact with South Korean defense officials continues.