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Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is no longer traveling to South Korea after the country’s President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law earlier this week in what critics have called a failed attempt to use the military power against their opponents.
Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder confirmed the visit was canceled and there were no immediate plans for a rescheduled trip.
“Given the events in (South Korea), it was considered a prudent move,” he told reporters Thursday, “and we will keep you updated on a new date when it is rescheduled.”
Yoon, in a shock move, declared martial law on Tuesday, mobilizing the military in the streets for hours before South Korea’s parliament voted unanimously to cancel the declaration.
Yoon had said in a televised speech that he was mobilizing the military against “pro-North Korean anti-state forces” while denouncing the opposition parties that control Parliament.
Opposition parties are now moving to possibly impeach the president, with votes expected on Saturday.
Yoon has struggled to enact his agenda in opposition to the majority in Parliament, and has also had to fend off corruption allegations against his wife.
The US hosts about 28,000 troops in South Korea, mainly to help counter the threat from North Korea.
