"Attention on Discussions Regarding Additional Measures in the National Assembly"
The U.S. government expressed the position that it is important for South Korea's democratic processes to function properly following the failure of the South Korean National Assembly's vote on the impeachment motion against President Yoon Seok-yeol.
According to Yonhap News on the 8th, when asked about the U.S. government's stance on the 7th (local time), a Biden administration official stated, "The United States has been paying close attention to today's outcome in the National Assembly and discussions regarding further actions by the Assembly."
The official said, "We continue to urge that South Korea's democratic institutions and procedures operate fully and properly in accordance with the constitution." He added, "We will maintain contact with relevant parties in South Korea to achieve this," emphasizing, "The right to peaceful protest is an essential element of a healthy democracy and must be respected in all circumstances."
The official also mentioned the South Korea-U.S. alliance. He said, "Our alliance remains ironclad. The United States is committed to peace and security on the Korean Peninsula," and "The American people will stand shoulder to shoulder with the South Korean people."
Furthermore, he stated, "The combined defense posture of the United States and South Korea remains strong and is prepared to respond to any provocations or threats."
This stance by the U.S. government is interpreted as a clear message that the South Korean government must never resort to forceful suppression of the anticipated future protests.
Previously, the U.S. government strongly criticized the South Korean government for suddenly declaring martial law without consulting the United States. On the 4th, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell said regarding President Yoon's martial law declaration, "I think it was a serious misjudgment." It is highly unusual for a U.S. State Department official to use the term "serious misjudgment" about an ally's leader.
Deputy Secretary Campbell further stated that the overall U.S. position on this situation is "a deep confidence in South Korea's ability to find a way forward despite all uncertainties," adding, "The most important message we want to convey is that there are clearly many questions about what has happened this time."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
