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South Korean President Declares Emergency Martial Law Amid Political Standoff

South Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol v2

On Tuesday, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced an “emergency martial law,” accusing the opposition of running the parliament, siding with North Korea, and paralyzing the government with their actions.

In a televised briefing, Yoon vowed to “eradicate pro-North Korean forces and protect our democratic order.”

Martial law commander Park An-su stated that all political activities—like those of the National Assembly, local councils, and political parties—are now banned. He also mentioned that all media would be under the control of the Martial Law Command.

The National Assembly was locked down, and helicopters were seen landing on its roof in live broadcasts. Footage showed troops trying to enter the main parliament hall.

In the financial markets, the Korean won dropped significantly against the U.S. dollar. A central bank official indicated they were preparing to stabilize the market if necessary.

Soldiers try to enter the National Assembly building in Seoul
Soldiers try to enter the National Assembly building in Seoul on December 4 2024, after South Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law.

Yoon didn’t mention any specific threats from North Korea, instead focusing on his political opponents. His announcement faced immediate backlash, including from Han Dong-hoon, the leader of his own conservative party, who called the decision “wrong” and vowed to resist it with public support.

Opposition leader Lee Jae-myung, who narrowly lost to Yoon in the 2022 presidential election, labeled the move as “illegal and unconstitutional.”

During his speech, Yoon claimed, “Through this martial law, I will rebuild and protect the free Republic of Korea, which is at risk.” He urged the public to trust him and endure “some inconveniences” as he works to eliminate what he calls anti-state forces.

This unexpected decision sent shockwaves through South Korea, a nation that has experienced authoritarian rule in the past but has been democratic since the 1980s.

Yoon, whose approval ratings have fallen recently, has faced difficulties pushing his agenda against an opposition-controlled parliament since taking office in 2022. His party, the conservative People Power Party, has been at a standstill with the liberal Democratic Party over next year’s budget.

The opposition is also trying to impeach three top prosecutors, claiming the conservatives are targeting them due to ongoing investigations into Lee, a leading figure in the upcoming 2027 presidential election. Additionally, Yoon has dismissed calls for independent investigations into scandals involving his wife and senior officials, leading to strong criticism from rivals. Following Yoon’s announcement, the Democratic Party held an emergency meeting among its lawmakers. (agency sources: AP, Reuters and AFP)