In an unexpected late-night television address, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced a state of martial law, accusing the main opposition party of aligning with North Korea and engaging in anti-state activities. This marks the first declaration of martial law in South Korea since 1980, which was during a nationwide uprising.
The president’s declaration was prompted by a motion from the opposition Democratic Party, which holds a parliamentary majority, seeking to impeach leading prosecutors and dismiss a government budget proposal. Shortly after the announcement, lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to reject the martial law decree, with 190 out of 300 members of parliament opposing it. National Assembly chairman Woo Won-sik labeled the president’s declaration as “invalid” and urged him to rescind the emergency measures, reassuring the public about the National Assembly’s commitment to defend democracy.
President Yoon characterized the actions of the opposition as “anti-state behavior” that has disrupted governance, asserting that martial law is necessary to safeguard the nation’s freedoms and ensure stability for future generations. While he acknowledged that martial law could lead to some societal disruption, he emphasized intentions to minimize its impact.
The military decree restricts political activities, permits warrantless arrests, bans “fake news, and outlaws actions that undermine democracy. Strikes and rallies that could cause social unrest are also prohibited, with specific orders for healthcare professionals engaging in strike actions to resume work.
Around 1 a.m. local time, military personnel that had moved into the main parliamentary building began to withdraw following the parliamentary vote, although some forces remained on-site. Cheers erupted from citizens gathered outside the building upon hearing the democratic vote results, with calls for the president’s resignation echoing among the crowd.
This situation presents a critical moment for South Korea’s democracy, where the National Assembly’s decisive response showcases the strength of democratic institutions in the face of heightened tensions. It serves as a reminder that democratic processes can prevail even in the most challenging circumstances.
As this unprecedented scenario unfolds, it is crucial for both government and citizens to engage constructively to maintain national stability while honoring democratic values. The response from the citizens and lawmakers demonstrates their commitment to upholding democracy, which could lead to constructive dialogues and solutions moving forward.
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