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South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law in an unannounced late-night TV address Tuesday, accusing the country’s main opposition party of sympathizing with North Korea and of anti-state activities. The last time a South Korean president declared martial law was in 1980, during a nationwide uprising led by students and labor unions.
In the surprise announcement, he cited a motion by the opposition Democratic Party, which has a majority in parliament, to impeach top prosecutors and reject a government budget proposal. Soon after, South Korean lawmakers voted to block the martial law decree, with 190 of the 300 members of parliament voting to overturn the measure.
The National Assembly chairman Woo Won-sik labeled the president’s announcement “invalid” following the unanimous vote and called on him to “immediately lift” the emergency measures. Woo, a member of the opposition liberal Democratic Party, added: “The people should … rest easy. The National Assembly will defend democracy with the people.”
Yoon had labeled the opposition’s actions as “clear anti-state behavior aimed at inciting rebellion.” He further claimed these acts have “paralyzed state affairs and turned the National Assembly into a den of criminals.” He justified the decision as essential to protect the freedoms and safety of the people, ensure the country’s sustainability, and pass on a stable nation to future generations.
The president assured the public, “We will eliminate the anti-state forces and restore the country to normalcy as quickly as possible.” While acknowledging that martial law might cause some inconvenience, he promised efforts to minimize its impact on the public.
Under South Korean law, the president is obliged to comply with the vote. However, it is unclear what effect the vote will have. The decree has banned all political and parliamentary activities and allows arrests without a warrant. People who violate the decree can be arrested or raided without the need for a warrant. The decree also outlaws “fake news” and “manipulating public opinion.”
Contrary to Yoon’s claims, the opposition has called the move “unconstitutional” and said it “goes against the people.” President Yoon has faced a raft of challenges, including rising tensions with North Korea, plummeting birth rates, and falling popularity ratings. The chief of Yoon’s own political party has condemned the move, saying it is “wrong” and will be blocked by rival lawmakers.
Tanks, armored vehicles, and soldiers with guns and swords have been deployed in Seoul, with citizens being told that they can be arrested without warrants needed. Opposition groups, including doctors who have been on strike, have been ordered to return to work within 48 hours.
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