South Korean President Declares Martial Law Over 'Anti-State Forces' Threat
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced martial law in a surprise late-night televised address, vowing to eliminate what he called "shameless pro-North Korean anti-state forces." This marks the first imposition of martial law in South Korea since 1980, sending shockwaves through the nation and raising concerns internationally.
Citing no immediate threat from North Korea, Yoon focused on domestic opposition, accusing them of hijacking parliamentary processes and destabilizing the country. "I declare martial law to protect the free Republic of Korea from the threat of North Korean communist forces and to safeguard our constitutional order," he said.
Under martial law, activities by parliament and political parties are suspended, while media and publishers fall under military control, according to Yonhap news agency.
The move triggered protests, with hundreds gathering outside Seoul’s National Assembly, chanting “Abolish martial law.” The legislature’s entrance was blocked, and tensions mounted as opposition leaders denounced Yoon’s actions. Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party, warned of economic collapse and urged citizens to rally at the National Assembly.
Criticism also came from Yoon's conservative allies, including party leader Han Dong-hoon, who called the decision "wrong" and pledged resistance.
The declaration raised fears of a return to South Korea’s authoritarian past under military dictators like Park Chung-hee and Chun Doo-hwan. A Seoul taxi driver expressed disbelief: “They’re using the same tactics from the dictatorship era. I never imagined this would happen again.”
The Centre for Military Human Rights condemned the move as "a declaration of war against the people," urging the military to abstain from force.
The US, which has 28,500 troops stationed in South Korea, is closely monitoring the situation. The Korean won plunged against the US dollar, with South Korea’s central bank preparing to stabilize the market if necessary.
Yoon’s administration has been criticized for its aggressive stance against dissent, including defamation lawsuits targeting the press. Critics accuse him of using martial law to suppress opposition amid mounting political challenges, including budget disputes and impeachment motions against top prosecutors.
While Yoon claims the measure is necessary to protect democracy, opposition and civil society groups view it as an authoritarian overreach, with fears it could escalate further unrest in an already divided nation.
(Contributions from Reuters and Associated Press.)
Post a Comment