Seoul: President Yoon Suk Yeol declared emergency martial law accusing opposition forces of crippling the government through what he termed as “anti-state activities.” However, in a swift political maneuver, the National Assembly voted within hours to annul the martial law declaration.
According to Yonhap News Agency, President Yoon made the unprecedented announcement during a live televised address, marking the first time since 1979 that such a measure has been taken in South Korea. The declaration was prompted by the opposition Democratic Party’s (DP) actions, including the passing of a downsized budget bill in the parliamentary committee and filing impeachment motions against key government officials. Citing national security concerns, Yoon highlighted the necessity of martial law to eradicate pro-North Korean forces and uphold the constitutional order.
In the aftermath of Yoon’s announcement, the Army Chief of Staff, Gen. Park An-su, issued a decree prohibiting all political activities, including protes
ts. Yet, by 1 a.m. the following day, the 300-member National Assembly convened in an emergency session, resulting in a unanimous vote to overturn the martial law with all 190 members present voting in favor. As per the parliamentary speaker’s office, the motion’s approval rendered the martial law declaration null and void, consistent with constitutional provisions requiring its repeal when demanded by a parliamentary majority.
President Yoon, during the emergency briefing at the presidential office, justified the martial law as a measure to “rebuild and safeguard” the nation amidst severe challenges. He acknowledged potential “inconvenience” to citizens but assured that efforts to “normalize” the situation would be prioritized, alongside maintaining international commitments.
Yoon criticized the opposition for its continuous impeachment efforts, claiming that these actions have severely disrupted the government’s functionality. He expressed concern over the budget cuts, arguing that they threaten essential
government operations including drug crime prevention and public safety, potentially turning the country into a “haven for drugs.”
Furthermore, Yoon alleged that the DP’s actions were politically motivated to protect its leader, Lee Jae-myung, from ongoing legal proceedings. He accused the opposition of transforming the National Assembly into a safe haven for criminals, thereby paralyzing the judicial and administrative systems.
Reacting to Yoon’s declaration, the DP quickly mobilized its lawmakers, leveraging its parliamentary majority to revoke the martial law. Meanwhile, Han Dong-hoon, leader of the ruling People Power Party, condemned the declaration, vowing to resist it alongside the citizens.