President Yoon Suk-yeol declared “emergency martial law”, blaming the country’s opposition in a televised speech, which immediately called an emergency session of parliament. Yun said he had no choice but to resort to such a measure to preserve free and constitutional order, saying opposition parties have hijacked the parliamentary process to plunge the country into crisis.
“I declare martial law to protect the Republic of Korea from the threats of the communist forces of North Korea, to immediately eliminate the rogue pro-Pyongyang anti-state forces that are plundering the freedom and happiness of our people, and to protect the free constitutional order Yun said. “Through martial law, we will rebuild and protect the free Republic of Korea, which is collapsing,” he added.
The surprise decision shocked the country, which has been considered democratic since the 1980s but has seen a series of authoritarian governments in the past. The Korean won fell sharply against the dollar.
The White House announced that President Joe Biden’s administration is in contact with the South Korean government and is closely monitoring developments.
What does martial law provide?
The military announced that parliament and political party activities were suspended, Yonhap news agency reported. Demonstrations and gatherings are also prohibited.
According to the agency, all media and publications are placed under the control of the military. Based on the decree, all actions judged to be attempts to overthrow the liberal democratic system, as well as the transmission of “fake news” and propaganda, are prohibited.
Also, all striking medical staff, including trainee doctors, were ordered to return to work within 48 hours. Strikes, work stoppages and gatherings that spark “social chaos” are also prohibited.
For “innocent ordinary citizens”, excluding “anti-state and other subversive forces”, measures will be taken to minimize the “inconvenience” they may face in their daily lives.
According to the decree, those who violate martial law may be arrested and detained without a warrant.
BREAKING: Television footage shows South Korean troops entering the main parliament hall.
Meanwhile, South Korean news agency Yonhap has reported the entrance to the parliament building is blocked.
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The opposition reacts
“Tanks, armored personnel carriers and soldiers with guns and knives will rule the country,” said Lee Jae-myung, the leader of the opposition Democratic Party (DP), which has a majority in parliament. “The economy of the Republic of Korea will collapse beyond repair. My fellow citizens, please come to the National Assembly,” he said in an online appeal.
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