US on South Korea's Failed Impeachment: "Democratic Process Must Work, Peaceful Protests Must Be Guaranteed"

"US-ROK Alliance Unbreakable... Committed to Peace and Security on the Korean Peninsula"

The U.S. government stated on the 7th (local time) that South Korea's democratic processes must function properly and the right to peaceful protest must be respected, in relation to the failed vote on the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol by the South Korean National Assembly amid the martial law situation.

Representative Lee Jae-myung and other members of the Democratic Party of Korea held a rally urging impeachment and condemning the People Power Party after the vote on the impeachment motion against President Yoon Seok-yeol was defeated at the National Assembly on the 7th. Photo by Kim Hyun-min

A Biden administration official said that day, "The United States has taken note of the results of the National Assembly and the discussions regarding further actions by the Assembly."

He explained, "We continue to urge that South Korea's democratic institutions and procedures operate fully and properly according to the constitution," adding, "To achieve this, we will maintain contact with relevant parties in South Korea." He further stated, "The right to peaceful protest is an essential element of a healthy democracy and must be respected in all circumstances."

The official also reaffirmed the firm U.S.-South Korea alliance and expressed that any provocations by neighboring countries exploiting South Korea's political turmoil will not be tolerated.

The official said, "Our alliance remains ironclad," and added, "The United States is committed to peace and security on the Korean Peninsula, and the American people stand shoulder to shoulder with the South Korean people."

He emphasized, "The combined defense posture of the United States and South Korea remains strong," and "We are prepared to respond to any provocations or threats."