South Korea Declares Martial Law Amid Political Turmoil
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared emergency martial law amid escalating political turmoil, accusing the opposition Democratic Party (DP) of collaborating with North Korea and undermining the democratic order. This significant move, the first of its kind since the military dictatorship ended in the late 1980s, was made during a televised address on 3rd December 2024.
In his speech, Yoon described the Democratic Party’s recent actions—such as attempts to impeach government officials and halt critical budget proposals—as “clear anti-state behaviour aimed at inciting rebellion.” He asserted that these activities had led to a paralysis of the state and a significant threat to public safety, characterising the National Assembly as a “monster undermining liberal democracy.”
Yoon’s declaration of martial law includes restrictions on all political activities and media censorship, with the army assuming control over public order. Gen. Park An-soo, appointed as martial law commander, announced that all forms of political activities, including demonstrations and legislative sessions, are now banned. The military has also ordered police to block access to the National Assembly, where opposition lawmakers have gathered in defiance of the orders.
The announcement provoked immediate backlash from both the Democratic Party and even within Yoon’s own People Power Party. Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung labelled the declaration unconstitutional and called on supporters to resist Yoon’s attempts to impose military rule. Han Dong-hoon, head of the People Power Party, described the decision as “wrong” and vowed to join the public in opposing it.
Yoon’s government has faced challenges in pushing its policies due to the opposition’s control of the National Assembly, coupled with low approval ratings from the public, exacerbated by scandals involving his administration. The declaration of martial law has raised concerns domestically and internationally, prompting the White House to express its commitment to monitoring the situation closely. As the political crisis unfolds, the prospect of further unrest looms large in South Korea, a nation that has historically resisted military rule.
South Korea's President Yoon Suk Yeol declares emergency martial law - live updates
In a surprise late night address, Yoon Suk Yeol, who has been struggling to pass a budget bill, says the move is to protect the country from North Kor
www.bbc.com
South Korea president declares emergency martial law | CNN
*Headline: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol Declares Martial Law Amid Political Turmoil*In a startling late-night address, South Korean President
www.cnn.com
South Korean political activities banned, protests prohibited and media censored under martial law – live
Members of the national assembly banned from entering building after president announces ‘emergency martial law’
www.theguardian.com
South Korea President Yoon Declares Martial Law: Live Updates
The decree, issued by President Yoon Suk Yeol amid a bitter fight with the political opposition, was the country’s first declaration of martial law si
www.nytimes.comSouth Korean president declares martial law, accusing opposition of anti-state activity
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared martial law vowing to eliminate “anti-state” forces as he struggles against the opposition that cont
apnews.com
South Korean president declares martial law
Opposition calls lawmakers to parliament as Yoon pledges to ‘eliminate anti-state forces’
www.ft.com
My Take | Is Trump factor at play as China grants visa-free entry to Japan, South Korea?
Unilateral move comes as Beijing faces headwinds both within and without, including fears about destabilising effect of incoming US leader.
www.scmp.com