South Korea has been shaken by an unexpected and dramatic turn of events. On Tuesday, President Yoon Suk Yeol made a stunning announcement: he was declaring martial law.
The decision, aimed at countering what he called “anti-state forces” threatening democracy, took the nation by surprise and sent shockwaves around the globe. However, just six hours later, Yoon reversed his decision amidst widespread opposition, sparking further political turmoil and calls for his resignation.
What happened when martial Law was declared?
Martial law is an extreme measure that puts the military in control of governance, suspending normal laws and civil liberties. In his late-night televised address, Yoon accused opposition forces of paralyzing the government and engaging in activities harmful to the state.
The announcement marked the first imposition of martial law in South Korea in over 40 years.
A decree from General Park An-su, the army chief and newly appointed martial law commander, quickly followed. It outlined sweeping restrictions, including:
- Banning political activities and parties.
- Prohibiting strikes and public gatherings deemed to incite unrest.
- Suppressing “false propaganda”.
- Placing all media under martial law control.
- Ordering striking medical personnel to return to work within 48 hours.
The president framed these actions as necessary to protect the nation’s liberal democracy from internal and external threats, citing North Korea as one of the dangers. Yet, his move eerily echoed South Korea’s authoritarian past, when military dictators controlled the nation, drawing immediate criticism from across the political spectrum.
Chaos at the national assembly
As martial law took effect, the National Assembly became a focal point of resistance. Security forces sealed the building, helicopters landed on its roof, and troops briefly occupied the premises to prevent lawmakers from entering.
Despite these efforts, 190 lawmakers managed to convene and unanimously voted to reject the martial law declaration. They demanded its immediate repeal.
Outside the Assembly, hundreds of protesters gathered to voice their anger. Chants calling for Yoon’s arrest filled the air. Scuffles broke out between protesters and soldiers, though there were no reports of serious injuries. In one dramatic moment, a woman tried to wrest a rifle from a soldier, shouting, “Aren’t you embarrassed?”
Why did Yoon backtrack?
South Korea’s constitution requires parliamentary approval for martial law to remain in effect. Although military officials initially claimed that martial law would stand until the president lifted it, the overwhelming opposition forced Yoon’s hand.
Criticism came from all sides. The leader of Yoon’s own conservative People Power Party called the declaration “wrong,” while opposition leader Lee Jae-myung labeled it “illegal and unconstitutional.” The Democratic Party, which leads the opposition, accused Yoon of staging “a coup d’etat” and demanded his resignation.
Six hours after his shocking announcement, Yoon reversed course. He declared that martial law would be lifted, and troops were ordered back to their barracks following a cabinet meeting.
How international and South Koreans are reacting
The global response to Yoon’s actions was swift. The White House expressed relief at his reversal, emphasizing the importance of democracy in the U.S.-South Korea alliance.
Earlier, American officials had voiced “grave concern” over the events in South Korea, where 28,500 U.S. troops are stationed as a deterrent against North Korea.
The day after the declaration, the mood in South Korea was one of confusion and dismay. For older citizens who lived through the country’s military dictatorship era, martial law is a painful reminder of past oppression. Younger South Koreans, meanwhile, expressed embarrassment over how the crisis had tarnished the nation’s global reputation.
On the streets, there is growing speculation about Yoon’s motives. Many are asking what he hoped to achieve. Impeachment has become a common topic of discussion, and political pressure on Yoon continues to mount.
What Comes Next?
The fallout from Yoon’s decision has been severe. South Korea’s main opposition party has demanded his immediate resignation, accusing him of inciting an insurrection. The country’s largest labor union group has announced an indefinite general strike, vowing to continue until Yoon steps down.
Even members of Yoon’s own party have distanced themselves from his actions, calling the attempt to impose martial law a “tragic mistake” and urging accountability for those involved.
South Korea now faces an uncertain political future. Yoon’s late-night declaration has not only weakened his presidency but also deepened divisions within the country. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether he can survive the mounting calls for his resignation or if the nation will witness an expedited move toward impeachment.
Oluwadamilola Olanrewaju
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