South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has announced the declaration of martial law in a surprising late-night television address, accusing the primary opposition party of harboring sympathies for North Korea and engaging in activities viewed as anti-state. This marks the first instance of martial law being declared by a South Korean president since 1980, a time characterized by significant civil unrest involving students and labor unions.
In his address, President Yoon referenced a motion from the opposition Democratic Party, which holds a majority in the National Assembly, aimed at impeaching senior prosecutors and rejecting a proposed government budget. This move has intensified political tensions within the country.
However, in a swift response, South Korean lawmakers voted overwhelmingly against the martial law decree, with 190 out of 300 parliament members supporting the action to overturn it. National Assembly chairman Woo Won-sik described the president’s announcement as “invalid” and urged an immediate lifting of the emergency measures, emphasizing the Assembly’s commitment to uphold democracy. He reassured citizens that the government would stabilize the situation.
President Yoon characterized the Democratic Party’s actions as “clear anti-state behavior” that jeopardizes national stability. He proposed martial law as a necessary step to counter these threats, asserting it is vital for ensuring public safety and the continuation of a stable state for future generations. He vowed to promptly eliminate these “pro-North anti-state forces” while minimizing any potential disruptions caused by martial law.
The specifics of the martial law measures have not been detailed, but reports indicate it includes a ban on all political and parliamentary activities, authorization for warrantless arrests, and restrictions on public expressions such as protests and strikes. Reportedly, medical professionals involved in a strike have been instructed to return to work within 48 hours under this decree.
As events unfolded early Wednesday morning in Seoul, troops that had entered the National Assembly prior to the parliamentary vote began to withdraw, although some remained on the premises. Outside, citizens reacted to the lawmakers’ decision with excitement, celebrating democracy and expressing dissent against President Yoon.
This critical moment in South Korean politics highlights the deepening divisions within the country and echoes a historical context of martial law that many hoped had been relegated to the past. It remains to be seen how this situation will evolve, but the legislative response signals that democratic values continue to be a priority for many citizens.
In summary, President Yoon’s declaration of martial law has sparked significant political turmoil, with lawmakers actively working to counteract his move. This demonstrates a resilient commitment to democracy among the South Korean populace, as citizens expressed their support for parliamentary decisions against the backdrop of substantial political crisis.
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