2518 Filmmakers Demand Impeachment and Arrest of President Yoon Suk-yeol

In a significant move, over 2,500 filmmakers, including renowned director Bong Joon-ho and actor Kang Dong-won, have issued an urgent statement calling for the impeachment and arrest of President Yoon Suk-yeol. The statement, released on December 7, 2024, declares, 'Impeach and arrest Yoon Suk-yeol, who is a 'criminal in the act of insurrection.' The filmmakers expressed their disbelief at the recent declaration of martial law by Yoon, stating that it is an act that defies common sense and is reminiscent of military dictatorship. They emphasized that the most pressing task for the preservation of the Republic of Korea is to remove Yoon from the presidency.

The statement highlights the filmmakers' ongoing criticism of the government's unilateral approach to film budget allocations during Yoon's presidency, which they argue has undermined the established processes of the Korean Film Council and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. They assert that the current chaotic situation can only be resolved by halting Yoon's presidential duties.

The filmmakers' statement follows a series of alarming events, including Yoon's declaration of martial law on December 3, which was quickly followed by the National Assembly's decision to lift it just two and a half hours later. The filmmakers noted that this situation has led to widespread concern among the public and international community, with many embassies warning their citizens about the dangers of visiting South Korea.

The statement concludes with a call for immediate action against Yoon, stating that he is no longer seen as the president but rather as a criminal. They demand the swift suspension of his presidential duties and his arrest for insurrection. The statement was signed by prominent figures in the film industry, including directors Kim Il-ran, Byun Young-joo, and actors Moon So-ri and Son Ye-jin, among others, and was supported by 77 organizations, including the Korean Independent Film Association and the Korean Cinematheque Association.