Iran Press/ Asia: This unprecedented move, justified by Yoon as a necessary measure to protect the nation from perceived threats, particularly from North Korea, has drawn widespread condemnation and sparked significant protests across the country.
Key Events Leading to Martial Law
April 11: Opposition parties achieved a significant victory in the National Assembly elections, securing over 60% of the seats, which marked a major shift in the political landscape.
May 9: Amid allegations of corruption involving his wife, First Lady Kim Keon-hee, President Yoon expressed regrets and issued an apology.
August 27: The Yoon administration proposed a budget of 677.4 trillion won (approximately $483 billion) to address various national challenges, including rising health insurance costs.
November 26: Yoon vetoed a bill for a special counsel investigation into corruption allegations against his wife for the third time.
November 29: The opposition slashed approximately 4.1 trillion won ($2.8 billion) from Yoon’s budget proposal, provoking strong backlash from his ruling People Power Party.
December 2: Polls indicated Yoon's popularity had plummeted to just 25%, intensifying political tensions.
December 3: In a dramatic televised announcement, Yoon declared martial law, claiming it was essential to eradicate "pro-North Korean forces" and restore order.
Immediate Aftermath
Following the declaration, the military imposed restrictions on political activities and media under martial law. However, this decree was short-lived; just hours later, the National Assembly voted against it amid mass protests and public outcry.
Lawmakers condemned Yoon's actions as an overreach of power and a threat to democracy.
In a statement following the Assembly's vote, Yoon acknowledged the legislature's decision but urged lawmakers to cease actions he deemed as paralyzing government functions. The swift reversal of martial law highlights the deep divisions within South Korea's political landscape and raises questions about the future of governance in the country.
Public Reaction and Implications
The declaration of martial law has provoked significant unrest, with thousands taking to the streets to demand accountability and express their opposition to Yoon's administration. Critics have labeled his actions as reminiscent of past authoritarian regimes in South Korea, raising fears about a potential regression in democratic norms.
As South Korea grapples with this political crisis, analysts are closely monitoring how these developments will affect both domestic stability and international relations, particularly with North Korea and key allies such as the United States.
The situation is now calm, and the impasse regarding President Yoon’s declaration of martial law has been resolved. The government of the Republic of Korea has upheld President Yoon Suk Yeol’s proposal to lift martial law in the country, the Yonhap news agency reported. The White House expressed relief that the issue has been settled and has ordered the lifting of martial law.
“Democracy is at the foundation of the US-ROK alliance, and we will continue to monitor the situation,” a spokesperson said, using the acronym for South Korea’s official name, The Republic of Korea.
At the same time, the US Embassy in Seoul has advised US citizens to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place.
“Following President Yoon’s announcement to lift the martial law declaration, the situation remains fluid. U.S. citizens should anticipate potential disruptions,” the embassy said in a social media post.
“When in public, you should pay attention to your surroundings and exercise routine safety precautions.”
South Korean President Declares Emergency Martial Law
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