Iran Press/ Asia: In an unexpected late-night address broadcast live on YTN television, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced the declaration of martial law on Tuesday, December 3rd.
Yoon stated that he had to take this action to uphold a free and constitutional order, citing the opposition parties' manipulation of the parliamentary process as a means to create crisis. "I am declaring martial law to safeguard the Republic of Korea from the threat posed by North Korean communist forces, eliminate anti-state elements supporting North Korea, and protect our people's freedom and well-being, as well as the constitutional order," Yoon declared.
He did not say in the address what specific measures will be taken.
Yoon cited a motion by the country’s opposition Democratic Party, which has a majority in parliament, this week to impeach some of the country’s top prosecutors and its rejection of a government budget proposal.
Yoon accused the opposition of anti-state activities and said the government administration has been paralysed because of opposition party’s conduct.The South Korean leader added that he would rebuild a free and democratic country through martial law.
