South Korea plunged into political turmoil as President Yoon Suk Yeol’s declaration of martial law was met with swift defiance from the National Assembly and massive protests on the streets of Seoul. This unprecedented move, the first martial law in more than 40 years, has ignited outrage across the nation and drawn sharp criticism from both domestic and international observers.
The President’s Drastic Move
Late Tuesday night, President Yoon shocked the nation by declaring emergency martial law, citing a “threat to free democracy” and accusing opposition forces of plotting an insurgency. The declaration handed control of news media, labor activities, and political gatherings to the military, with harsh penalties for dissenters.
In his televised address, Yoon claimed the measure was essential to counter “pro-North Korean anti-state forces” and to restore stability in the country. “Through this emergency martial law, I will rebuild and defend the free Republic of Korea,” Yoon stated.
Lawmakers Fight Back
Within hours of the declaration, the opposition-controlled National Assembly convened an emergency session and voted overwhelmingly to demand the lifting of martial law. According to South Korean law, the president is obligated to comply with such a resolution immediately. Speaker Woo Won-shik declared the martial law “null and void,” a sentiment echoed by lawmakers who cheered the vote.
Even members of Yoon’s conservative People Power Party joined in condemning the decision. Party leader Han Dong-hoon labeled the martial law declaration “wrong” and vowed to work with citizens to block its enforcement.
