KOREA DIGEST
Korea Digest is a monthly publication of the Korea Centre, School of International Relations and Politics, Mahatma Gandhi University, that compiles major political, security, economic and diplomatic developments in the Korean Peninsula. Korea Digest aims to track, highlight and provide brief analysis of important developments in the Korean Peninsula.
Korea Digest No. 18 December, 2024
Contents
- Parliament impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol after declaring martial law
- North Korea and Russia enacted defense treaty following ratification exchange
- South Korea assumed the chairmanship of APEC for 2025
- North Korea responded to Yoon’s martial law declaration and subsequent impeachment
- US approved the sale of Navy destroyer upgrade program to Korea
- Foreign workers in Korea hit all-time high of over 1 million
- UN General Assembly passed 20th consecutive resolution on North Korean human rights
- NIS confirmed 100 North Korean soldiers killed in Ukraine
- South Korea successfully launched third military satellite
- US President Biden signed the defense bill to maintain U.S. troop presence in South Korea
- Jeju Air passenger plane crashed at Muan Airport in South Korea
Prepared by
Mohammed Unais AV, Project Fellow, Korea Centre
- Parliament impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol after declaring martial law
The National Assembly has impeached South Korea’s President Yoon Suk-Yeol after his contentious declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024, which plunged the nation into a political crisis. The impeachment motion was passed on December 14 during a plenary session with 204 out of 300 lawmakers voting in favour. Eight legislative members belonging to Yoon’s conservative People Power Party (PPP) members supported the motion breaking the party line.
Yoon’s declaration of martial law, the first such measure since the 1980, cited the need to eliminate “anti-government forces” and “pro-North Korean” collaborators and address what he described as “legislative tyranny” undermining the nation’s constitution. The announcement was met with widespread condemnation across political spectrum including the ruling party members. In a dramatic turn of events lawmakers voted to nullify the martial law decree. Yoon was compelled to accept the assembly’s decision after a six-hour political confrontation.
After the failure of the first impeachment motion against President Yoon on December 7, the opposition party succeeded in its second attempt on December 14, citing unconstitutional actions, including the declaration of martial law and allegations of treason. The motion was passed with 204 votes in favour, supported by some members of the ruling PPP, amid growing public pressure. President Yoon was immediately suspended from office pending the Constitutional Court of Korea’s decision on whether his actions warranted removal from office. Yoon is the third president against whom the Korean National Assembly has passed an impeachment motion. Previously, Presidents Roh Moo-hyun in 2004 and Park Geun-hye in 2016 faced similar impeachment proceedings. While the Constitutional Court ruled in favor of President Park’s impeachment, it ruled against the impeachment of President Roh.
In the interim, Prime Minister Han Duk-soo was sworn in as acting president, as mandated by the constitution. However, on December 27, the National Assembly impeached Han, citing his refusal to appoint Constitutional Court justices to oversee Yoon’s impeachment trial, his complicity in the martial law imposition, and his failure to promulgate special counsel bills targeting Yoon and First Lady Kim Kyung-hee. This marked the first removal of an acting president in South Korea’s history. With Han’s dismissal, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok assumed the role of acting president.
On December 31, as the investigation into the martial law declaration progressed, the Seoul Western District Court issued an arrest warrant for President Yoon Suk-Yeol, marking a historic first in South Korea’s history for a sitting president. The warrant, requested by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) a day earlier, came after President Yoon repeatedly refused to appear for questioning at the CIO headquarters. Yoon had ignored three summonses following the declaration of short-term martial law on December 3. The arrest warrant accuses him of leading a rebellion and abusing his power.
- North Korea and Russia enacted defense treaty following ratification exchange
North Korean State media announced on December 5 that the defense treaty signed between North Korea and Russia in June has officially come into force, following the exchange of ratification instruments earlier in the month. According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty” became effective on December 4, after both nations signed a protocol for the exchange. On December 10, the Russian Embassy in North Korea hosted a reception to celebrate the ratification of the mutual defense treaty between the two countries. The reception was attended by top North Korean officials, including Cho Ryong-hae, chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People’s Assembly, Foreign Minister Cho Son-hui, and Kim Yo-jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, according to KCNA.
The treaty, formalized during a June summit in Pyongyang between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin, obligates both nations to provide immediate military support if either is attacked. This marks a significant escalation in their military collaboration, with North Korea reportedly dispatching thousands of troops to aid Russia in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. KCNA emphasized that the treaty establishes a legal foundation for elevating bilateral ties to a “new strategic level” while ensuring regional and global security in line with the shared interests of both countries. It also characterized the alliance as a vital tool for promoting the welfare of their citizens, stabilizing the regional situation, and enhancing international strategic equilibrium. The treaty, the first such agreement since the annulment of the 1996 Mutual Defense Treaty, is viewed as a revival of Cold War-era alliances. KCNA further noted that the pact aims to facilitate the creation of a multipolar global order free from domination, subjugation, and hegemony.
- South Korea assumed the chairmanship of APEC for 2025
Korea officially commenced its chairmanship of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2025 at the Informal Senior Officials Meeting (ISOM) symposium in Seoul on December 9, marking the country’s first time hosting the forum in two decades. The symposium, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, outlined the 2025 agenda under the theme “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow: Connect, Innovate, and Prosper.” The event convened 170 senior officials from APEC member economies, representatives of the APEC Secretariat, and domestic government leaders.
Second Vice Foreign Minister Kang In-sun underscored the importance of addressing both traditional and emerging global challenges in next year’s discussions. The APEC Economic Leaders’ Summit, scheduled for November 2025 in Gyeongju, is expected to be the largest international event under the Yoon Suk-Yeol administration since the 2005 APEC Summit in Busan. High-profile leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, on his first visit to Korea since his re-election, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, on his first trip to the country in a decade, are anticipated to attend. However, political instability has overshadowed the preparations. Despite the National Assembly’s passage of a special bill to facilitate the event, President Yoon’s recent declaration of martial law and ensuing impeachment have cast doubt on Korea’s readiness to host such a significant international event.
- North Korea responded to Yoon’s martial law declaration and subsequent impeachment
North Korea has reacted to the ongoing political turmoil in South Korea, which saw President Yoon Suk-yeol declare martial law on December 3 and face impeachment by the National Assembly on December 14. Pyongyang’s first official response came through its state media on December 11, eight days after the declaration of martial law. The Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party, dedicated 80% of the international news section on page six to address the crisis. The report accused President Yoon of declaring martial law to escape what it described as the most significant crisis of his administration. It alleged that Yoon deployed armed troops, including helicopters and special operations forces, to blockade the National Assembly, branding the action as a “fascist dictatorship” that had plunged South Korea into chaos. The Rodong Sinmun referred to the events as a “social uprising” and claimed the martial law declaration had turned South Korea into a hub of mass protests.
On December 16, North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on President Yoon’s impeachment, which the South Korean National Assembly approved on December 14. The KCNA criticized Yoon’s attempt to shift blame for the martial law declaration onto opposition parties, which it said triggered widespread outrage among the public and political circles. The agency further reported that several high-ranking military and police officials were detained and suspended amid investigations into the martial law decision, labeling Yoon the “ringleader of rebellion.” Pyongyang’s state media has portrayed the events as evidence of deep instability in South Korea. Both state media outlets consistently referred to South Korea as a “puppet regime” and criticized its leadership for what they framed as systemic failings and authoritarian excesses.
- US approves sale of Navy destroyer upgrade program to Korea
The United States has approved the sale of an enhancement program for South Korea’s KDX-II-class Navy destroyers, aimed at bolstering the country’s defense capabilities. The $300 million Foreign Military Sale (FMS), authorized by the State Department, includes modified MK 99 fire control systems, upgraded Weapon Direct System software, integration, installation, and training, according to a statement from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). The program will enhance South Korea’s anti-surface warfare capabilities, helping deter regional threats and reinforce homeland security. The sale, which requires Congressional approval, was certified by the DSCA after prior notification to Congress.
- Foreign workers in Korea hit all-time high of over 1 million
The number of foreign workers in South Korea reached a record 1.01 million this year, according to a December 17 report by Statistics Korea, marking an increase of 87,000 from last year and the highest figure since 2012. Nearly half (461,000) work in mining and manufacturing, while 191,000 are employed in wholesale, retail, accommodation, and restaurants. SMEs with 50 to 299 employees saw a 46% rise in foreign workers, addressing labor shortages. The employment rate of foreign workers rose to 64.7%, while unemployment increased to 5.7%. Income data showed growth in workers earning over 2 million won, while lower-income brackets declined. Meanwhile, the percentage of foreigners reporting discrimination dropped to 17.4%, a 2.3-point decrease from 2022.
- UN General Assembly passed 20th consecutive resolution on North Korean human rights
On December 17, the United Nations General Assembly adopted its annual resolution addressing human rights violations in North Korea, marking the 20th consecutive year of such action. The resolution, passed by consensus, urged Pyongyang to improve its human rights record and criticized the oppressive political environment that has fueled its weapons development programs while stifling public discourse. Co-sponsored by Seoul and Washington, the resolution underscored the need for a unified international response to address the ongoing situation in North Korea. It also called on the regime to abolish customs and laws that restrict freedoms of thought, expression, and religion. Notably, the resolution requested the UN General Assembly President to organize a high-level plenary session, including testimonies from civil society and experts, to spotlight the persistent human rights abuses in the country. As in previous years, North Korea reacted vehemently, with its representatives denouncing the resolution as a politically charged provocation designed to undermine the nation’s sovereignty and dignity. The annual resolution, first adopted in 2005, serves as a global appeal for Pyongyang to confront and rectify its human rights issues.
- NIS confirmed 100 North Korean soldiers killed in Ukraine
South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) confirmed on December 19 that approximately 100 North Korean soldiers deployed to Russia to support its war in Ukraine have been killed, with around 1,000 more wounded. The soldiers, part of an 11,000-strong contingent stationed in Russia’s western Kursk region, reportedly began combat operations earlier this month. The NIS report, corroborated by intelligence from Ukrainian agencies and allied nations, described the casualty figures as conservative. The losses span from low-ranking troops to senior officers, with one high-ranking general among the dead. North Korean forces have reportedly suffered heavily during missile and drone strikes and even in training exercises, reflecting their inexperience with open-terrain warfare. Frequently assigned as “frontline shock troops,” these soldiers have struggled to counter modern drone attacks, rendering them vulnerable in combat. The NIS further warned of potential reinforcements from North Korea’s elite Storm Corps, a 46,000-strong unit with 10 brigades capable of replenishing frontline losses. As the conflict in Ukraine shows signs of intensifying, the intelligence agency cautioned that North Korean casualties could rise, particularly ahead of anticipated peace talks involving U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.
- South Korea successfully launched third military satellite
South Korea achieved a significant milestone in its defense capabilities on December 21 by successfully launching its third military surveillance satellite under the 425 Project. The satellite was deployed on December 21 at 3:24 a.m. local time from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, according to the Ministry of National Defense. This latest addition follows the launch of two earlier satellites on December 2 and April 8, 2023. The satellite entered its designated orbit 51 minutes after liftoff, with ground station contact confirming mission success nearly three hours later at 6:20 a.m. Initial testing and evaluations will be conducted over the coming months before the satellite begins its operational role in monitoring North Korean nuclear and missile activities. The 425 Project, initiated seven years ago, aims to establish a network of five advanced reconnaissance satellites by 2025. The system comprises one satellite equipped with electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) sensors and four satellites utilizing synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology. These assets are designed to enhance South Korea’s Kill Chain preemptive strike strategy, providing independent surveillance capabilities previously reliant on U.S. satellite imagery. The EO/IR satellite, the first in the series, captures high-resolution images during daylight and nighttime in sun-synchronous orbit but is sensitive to weather conditions. In contrast, the SAR satellites, unaffected by weather, provide continuous imaging capabilities around the clock by detecting radar reflections from ground targets. Together, the system will enable South Korea to monitor the Korean Peninsula every two hours once the final two satellites are launched next year. This development marks a crucial step forward in bolstering South Korea’s national security, offering robust tools to counter threats from its northern neighbor.
- US President Biden signed the defense bill to maintain U.S. troop presence in South Korea
President Joe Biden has signed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2025, allocating $895 billion for national defense programs. The legislation underscores the United States’ commitment to maintaining a strong military alliance with South Korea, including the continued presence of approximately 28,500 American troops in the country. The NDAA, which was approved by the House of Representatives in early December and by the Senate on December 18, prioritizes key defense policies and funding for the coming year. The bill reaffirms the U.S. pledge to comprehensive defense, encompassing the use of all military capabilities, including nuclear, to protect South Korea. The legislation also calls on the U.S. defense secretary to bolster the alliance with South Korea through the sustained deployment of U.S. Forces Korea personnel. This comes amid concerns about the potential policy direction of President-elect Donald Trump, who has previously signaled a preference for reducing U.S. military involvement overseas as part of his “America First” strategy. Experts warn that such a move could diminish the U.S.’s strategic presence in the region.
- Jeju Air plane crashes at Muan Airport in South Korea
On the morning of December 29, a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crashed while attempting to land at Muan International Airport in South Jeolla Province, marking the deadliest aviation disaster in South Korea’s history. Of the 181 people on board the flight returning to Korea from Bangkok, 179 died, with two surviving flight attendants being rescued from the aircraft’s tail section. The crash occurred shortly after a bird strike damaged the plane’s landing gear during its final approach, triggering a crash landing followed by an explosion. Witness accounts and media reports indicated that birds were drawn into the engine, which subsequently caught fire before the explosion. The tragedy unfolded just three minutes after the pilots issued a mayday call. Recovery teams have retrieved the cockpit voice and flight data recorders to aid ongoing investigations. A massive recovery operation involving over 1,500 personnel has so far identified 141 victims. Among the passengers were several public officials, children, including a three-year-old boy, and two Thai nationals. In response, Acting President Choi Sang-mok declared Muan County a special disaster area and announced a seven-day period of national mourning, lasting until January 4. The government has pledged full support for the victims’ families and vowed to continue rescue and recovery efforts. Memorial altars will be set up nationwide starting Monday to honour the victims during the mourning period. In light of the tragedy, New Year celebrations across South Korea have been cancelled.
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