SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — In a dramatic move, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Tuesday, vowing to eliminate what he described as “anti-state” forces. This decision comes as he faces mounting opposition from a parliament controlled by the Democratic Party, which he accuses of sympathizing with North Korea’s communist regime.
Martial Law Decision Sparks Controversy and Outrage
President Yoon’s declaration of martial law, reminiscent of the authoritarian measures seen in South Korea during the 1980s, has already sparked significant backlash. Opposition leaders and even members of Yoon’s own conservative party have strongly condemned the move, with critics calling it a step backward in South Korea’s democracy.
The exact duration of the martial law remains uncertain, as South Korean law allows the declaration to be revoked by a majority vote in parliament—where the opposition holds significant power. Television footage showed police officers blocking the entrance to the National Assembly, signaling a tense standoff between the executive and legislative branches.
Military Takes Action in Support of Martial Law
Following the president’s announcement, South Korea’s military issued a statement detailing the suspension of parliament and other political gatherings deemed to cause “social confusion.” Additionally, the military called on striking doctors to return to work within 48 hours. The doctors have been protesting for months over government plans to expand medical school enrollment, which they view as a threat to their profession.
The decision to impose martial law has been heavily criticized by Han Dong-hoon, leader of Yoon’s conservative People Power Party, who called it “wrong” and vowed to oppose it. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party and Yoon’s opponent in the 2022 presidential election, labeled the move “illegal and unconstitutional.”
Yoon Defends Martial Law as Necessary for National Security
In a televised speech, President Yoon defended his decision, framing it as a necessary step to “rebuild and protect” the country. He claimed that martial law was vital to prevent the nation from descending into chaos and to safeguard the constitutional democratic order. Yoon specifically mentioned his intent to “eradicate pro-North Korean forces” and “eliminate anti-state forces” to restore national stability.
He asked the South Korean people to tolerate “some inconveniences” during this period, which reflects the growing discontent with his administration. Yoon’s approval rating has slipped in recent months, and he has struggled to push his policies through a divided parliament.
Political Gridlock and Rising Tensions with the Opposition
Yoon’s government has been locked in a fierce standoff with the Democratic Party, particularly over next year’s national budget. The opposition has also moved to impeach three top prosecutors, including the chief prosecutor of the Seoul Central District, in what the conservatives describe as a politically motivated campaign against their investigations into Lee Jae-myung. The opposition leader is seen as a top contender in the 2027 presidential election.
Additionally, Yoon has faced criticism for dismissing calls for independent investigations into allegations involving his wife and other senior officials. This has further escalated tensions between his administration and political rivals.
A Historic Moment in South Korea’s Democratic History
This declaration of martial law marks a historic moment for South Korea, as it is the first such declaration since the country’s democratization in 1987. The last martial law was imposed in October 1979, during the military dictatorship of Park Chung-hee, an event that ultimately led to a period of political upheaval in South Korea.
As the political crisis deepens, the coming days will likely reveal how long this extraordinary measure can stand, and whether it will spark further unrest or lead to a resolution of the country’s deepening political divides.
Summary
President Yoon’s martial law declaration is a bold and controversial move, raising alarm both domestically and internationally. His critics argue that it undermines South Korea’s hard-won democracy, while Yoon defends it as necessary to protect national stability. The situation remains fluid, and it will be crucial to see how the country’s legislature and public react in the days ahead.