South Korean ruling party says president to resign ‘orderly treat’

By Esra Tekin

ISTANBUL (AA) - The ruling party in South Korea pledged Saturday to work toward an “orderly retreat” for Yoon Suk Yeol after a failed impeachment motion against the president, Yonhap News reported.

“The PPP (People Power Party) will push for the president's orderly retreat to minimize chaos,” said the leader of the party.

Han Dong-hoon apologized after the impeachment motion against Yoon was dismissed, as nearly every PPP lawmaker boycotted the vote, which needed a two-thirds majority to succeed.

"I am very sorry for the situation that has unfolded since the declaration of martial law,” Han told reporters in parliament.

He added that he would consult with the main opposition party to seek a process in a “predictable and transparent manner.”

“Yoon will be effectively stripped of his duties until he retreats, and the prime minister will take care of state affairs in consultation with the party,” he added.

Yoon imposed martial law Tuesday, citing alleged “anti-state activities” by opposition groups.

The Defense Ministry ordered military commanders to prepare and dispatch troops to enforce the decree, including entry into the National Assembly.

But lawmakers managed to enter parliament at midnight, and during an emergency session voted 190-0 to repeal the decree, rendering it void.

Yoon complied with the parliament's decision, convened his Cabinet and reversed the decision.