WASHINGTON, Dec 5 (Reuters) – U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has canceled his planned visit to South Korea following President Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed attempt to impose martial law earlier this week, two U.S. officials confirmed.
The officials, speaking anonymously, stated that while the trip had been in the works, it was decided the timing was not appropriate. South Korea was informed of the change.
Yoon’s declaration of martial law on Tuesday, aimed at consolidating power and restricting political freedoms, sparked protests and drew international concern. In the aftermath, Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who had recommended the move, resigned. Yoon nominated Ambassador Choi Byung-hyuk as the new defense minister.
The U.S. maintains 28,500 troops in South Korea, and General Paul LaCamera, commander of U.S. Forces Korea, urged vigilance among American personnel in light of the unrest.
