South Korea: The Seoul-Washington alliance, “pillar of peace” in Asia

The alliance between Seoul and Washington “will remain the pillar of peace and prosperity” in the Asia-Pacific region, US President Joe Biden told South Korean Prime Minister and interim President Han Duck-soo on Saturday evening.

This was the first exchange between Joe Biden and Han since the latter took over as interim President Yoon Suk Yoles, impeached by Parliament on Saturday after his failed attempt to impose martial law and have Parliament muzzled by the army on December 3.

“President Biden expressed his appreciation for the resilience of democracy and the rule of law in the Republic of Korea,” the White House said in a statement.

The United States taken by surprise

“The two leaders discussed the significant progress made in recent years in strengthening the U.S.-ROK alliance, and President Biden expressed confidence that the alliance will remain the pillar of peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region during the tenure of Acting President Han,” the text adds.

Yoon Suk Yoles’ coup on December 3 took the United States, South Korea’s main ally, by surprise. White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said the US government had not been informed in advance and had learned of the news via television.

This unexpected coup caused “deep concern” in Washington, he said.

A criminal investigation for “rebellion”

During his two and a half years at the head of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yoles visited the United States five times and worked to strengthen the alliance with Washington, crucial in the face of the military threat of North Korea. About 28,500 American troops are stationed in South Korea.

Yoon Suk Yoles is currently suspended pending validation or not of his dismissal by the Constitutional Court, which has six months to rule. He is also the subject of a criminal investigation for “rebellion” and is not allowed to leave the country.

If the Constitutional Court confirms his impeachment, a presidential election will take place within two months. Han Duck-soo will continue to serve as president until then.

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